The National Historical Commission of the Philippines, together with the Tanauan City government, commemorated the 123rd death anniversary of Apolinario Mabini through a flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony held Wednesday morning, May 13, at the Museo ni Apolinario Mabini.
Dubbed as the “Brains of the Revolution,” Mabini was remembered for his significant contributions to the Philippine revolutionary movement and the establishment of the First Philippine Republic.
The commemoration began with a Holy Mass at 8:00 a.m. officiated by Rev. Fr. Russell B. Matuloy, parish priest of St. Augustine Parish.
This was followed by the flag-raising ceremony led by the Philippine National Police and the recitation of the pledge of allegiance headed by Councilor Czylene T. Marqueses of the Committee on Tourism and History.
Batangas 3rd District Representative King George Leandro Antonio V. Collantes led the wreath-laying rites together with several local and national officials.
Among the wreath offerors were NHCP Historic Sites and Education Division Chief Gina C. Batuhan, Vilma Santos-Recto, Tanauan City Mayor Nelson P. Collantes, Vice Mayor Wilfredo P. Ablao, Batangas Schools Division Superintendent Nicolas M. Burgos, CESO VI, Barangay Talaga Chairman Rico Mabini Talagsad, and representatives from Mabini’s descendants.
The program also featured welcome remarks from Vice Mayor Ablao, as well as messages from Mayor Collantes and Rep. Collantes, who emphasized the importance of remembering Mabini’s patriotism, intellect, and dedication to the country.
Mabini served as secretary of the La Liga Filipina in 1893 and later became associated with the Katipunan. His works, including El Verdadero Decalogo and Programa Constitucional de la Republica Filipina, became instrumental in shaping the Malolos Constitution.
He also served in the cabinet of Emilio Aguinaldo as President of the Council of Secretaries and Secretary of Foreign Affairs before his death from cholera on May 13, 1903, at the age of 39.
