Andres P. Dadizon was a Filipino soldier from Barangay Bunga in Cabucgayan, Biliran, who answered the call to arms during the first world war.
He joined the US Army and went to Europe to fight for the stars and stripes.
Sadly, he lost his life in battle, but his legacy lives on and continues to inspire generations.
For years, Dadizon's memory remained dormant and forgotten, lost with time. However, fate had other plans for the Biliranon hero.
The existing entrance archway and signage of the Biliran Police Provincial Office await the installation of a new archway and signage bearing its new name, Camp Private Andres P. Dadizon. (Photo courtesy of Biliran Provincial Police Office)
Restoring the local pride
His statue was installed at Camp Bumpus, formerly known as the Leyte Park Hotel, which served as the headquarters of the Philippine Constabulary.
However, when the camp was transferred to Campetic, Palo, Leyte, the statue was neglected and left to deteriorate. Typhoon Yolanda struck in 2013, and the statue was dragged to the shore.
In 2021, the provincial government of Biliran spearheaded a campaign to restore Dadizon's statue to its rightful place in history.
This was made possible through the tireless efforts of the Philippine Tourism Authority (PTA), the Department of Tourism (DOT), and the unwavering dedication of local officials, including former Governor Roger Espina.
Dadizon's statue was rescued from obscurity and guided back to its rightful home in Biliran province by those who refused to let his memory perish, especially Allan Paul U. Tubis, his relative.
Allan Paul U. Tubis, a member of the Biliran Sangguniang Panlalawigan and a relative of Private Andres Dadizon, was pictured posing with the original statue that had been retrieved in 2022. (Photo courtesy of Allan Paul U. Tubis)
Tribute to heroism
On December 20, 2023, Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin signed Presidential Proclamation No. 430. The proclamation recognized Dadizon's patriotism, courage, and dedication to the country and the province. To honor him, the Biliran Police Provincial Office was renamed "Camp Private Andres P. Dadizon, Police Regional Office 8."
During the Provincial Statistical Committee's First Quarter Meeting on March 18, Police Lieutenant Colonel Teodora P. Salarza confirmed the new name of their camp. The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Biliran had already approved Resolution No. 204, series of 2021, on August 20, 2021, in support of the new name.
Colonel Felix G. Gervacio Jr. explained that although they have started using Camp Private Andres P. Dadizon in their letterheads this March, the official launch of the new name is scheduled for May 11, during the 32nd anniversary of Biliran.
This decision was not just an administrative matter but also a tribute to Dadizon, whose legacy had been long overdue for acknowledgment. The unveiling ceremony will take place after the rehabilitated statue of Dadizon is installed at the camp.
Dadizon's statue stands tall in Biliran, a testament to heroism, honor, and sacrifice. His journey from forgotten warrior to revered icon highlights the power of remembrance and the resilience of the human spirit, etching his legacy into the province's fabric. It serves as a reminder of the unyielding spirit of those who call this land their own. (MLT, PIA Biliran)
