Cinco de Noviembre: A Day of Revolution and Freedom

Silayushi Japanese Restaurant
3 min readOct 11, 2023

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On the 5th of November, in the heart of the Philippines, a historic event unfolded that would forever alter the course of Negros Island’s history. Cinco de Noviembre, also known as Negros Day, is a date of significance and celebration, marking a pivotal moment when the people of Negros Occidental united in their quest for freedom and independence. In this article, we will explore the historical background, significance, and the enduring spirit of Cinco de Noviembre.

A History of Struggles

The history of Negros Occidental is intertwined with the sugar industry, which brought prosperity but also social and economic challenges to the region. By the late 19th century, the sugar barons, who held immense power, were exploiting the labor force, leading to widespread discontent among the farmers and laborers.

During this period, Filipinos were yearning for independence from colonial rule, and the people of Negros were no different. The oppressive conditions in the sugar industry, coupled with the desire for autonomy, ignited a desire for change.

The Revolution Begins

Cinco de Noviembre, which translates to “Fifth of November,” was the day when Negros Occidental’s revolution took root. On this fateful day in 1898, a group of local leaders, including Juan Araneta, Aniceto Lacson, and several others, came together to formally declare Negros’ separation from Spanish colonial rule.

A significant event occurred in Bacolod, where they raised the Negros flag, which bore a white, blue, and red triangle — the same colors of the Filipino flag. This historic declaration marked the beginning of a struggle for freedom and a new chapter in the region’s history.

A United Stand

What sets Cinco de Noviembre apart is the spirit of unity that fueled this uprising. People from all walks of life, regardless of social status, joined forces in their quest for independence. This collective effort, exemplified by the “Cry of Pugad Lawin,” which inspired the Filipino Revolution, was mirrored in Negros Occidental.

The outcome of the revolution was the establishment of the Cantonal Republic of Negros, an independent government that managed Negros affairs until it was later incorporated into the newly established Philippine Republic in 1899.

The Legacy Lives On

Cinco de Noviembre serves as a reminder of the resilience, determination, and unity of the Negrenses. It is not only a day to commemorate a historic event but a day to celebrate the enduring spirit of the people. The annual celebration of Negros Day includes parades, reenactments, and cultural events that showcase the rich history and culture of Negros Occidental.

Cinco de Noviembre also underscores the importance of historical preservation and education. Museums and heritage sites like the Negros Museum in Bacolod and Balay Negrense in Silay City help keep the memory of this pivotal day alive for future generations.

Read more: https://silayushi.com/cinco-de-noviembre

Cinco de Noviembre, Negros Day, is a day of pride, remembrance, and unity. It commemorates a significant event in the history of Negros Occidental and the Philippines, where the spirit of freedom and independence prevailed. The legacy of this day lives on in the hearts of the Negrenses, serving as a symbol of their enduring commitment to freedom, justice, and unity. On this day, we remember, celebrate, and honor the brave souls who came together on the Fifth of November to change the course of history.

Sign up to view our menu at https://silayushi.com/yes. Or try our instant ramen noodle and get delivery anywhere in the Philippines. Order here for only ₱40: https://shop.silayushi.com/instant-noodles-original

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