DUMAGUETE CITY, Negros Oriental (PIA) -- The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) is set to install a historical marker at the Negros Oriental Provincial Capitol to mark the building's 100th year on May 17.

NHCP commissioner and Silliman University professor Earl Jude Cleope said the building was built in 1924 and inaugurated in 1925.

“What is meaningful or significant on this installation of the marker is with great historical value, focus on national consciousness on the history and evoke pride in our heritage as this is determined with proper and thorough discussion or study,” said Cleope.

The Provincial Capitol Building Centennial Committee led by executive director Woodrow “RR” Maquiling Jr., of the Provincial Tourism Board has lined up several activities to highlight the commemoration of the heritage site during its centennial historical and cultural milestone.

The committee has started repainting and repairing the building and restoring pictures and frames of the governors from 1925 up to 2022.

The program will start at 4:00 p.m., which will be highlighted by the unveiling of the historical marker by the officials of NHCP and the Capitol.

Committee vice-chair Glynda Descuatan said there will also be a cultural heritage presentation featuring Kuh Ledesma, who has been invited to sing “Ako Ay Pilipino.”

“For now, expected to attend the historical occasion is Sen. Francis Tolentino who is the first to confirm his presence among the senators invited to join the event,” said Descuatan.

The provincial government will also hold a Pyromusical Competition featuring six teams who will compete in the grand fireworks display amid a symphony of sounds.

Winners will receive P110,000 for the Best Pyromusical Display, P90,000 as 2nd prize, P80,000 as 3rd prize, and P60,000 as consolation prizes.  

A free concert with Midnasty as well as other local performers will also perform at the Freedom Park stage. (JCT/PIA7 Negros Oriental)