(The English Version)
By: CRESENCIANO "ATO" C. BAUTISTA
See pictures of Hagonoy About the Author
HAGONOY, my beloved town, is truly blessed and endowed with beauty and abundance and children who, akin to shinning stars in the space of prominence in all fields of endeavors.
Hagunoy, known as Spitatres Acmella, (from Latin), is a shrub or plant like nipa and mangrove trees that growed at the seashore or riverside. This has extraordinary features used as medicine to heal wounds and cure skin diseases or dysentery or delicious ingredients for cooking fish and meat.
According to legend, when the Spanish soldiers came, they saw abundantly growing shrubs or plants and asked the natives what was the name of the shrubs. They replied that the said scrubs were hagunoy. From that time, the place was called Hagunoy.
Hagonoy was a former small barrio of Calumpit, Bulacan. It was said that the Parish Church of Sta. Ana was inaugurated on 26 July 1781.[Pablo Victoria, The Hagonoy United Methodist Church, Souvenir Program, 1902 - 1985]. However, the Christianization of the town started in the year 1582.
The town of Hagonoy is bounded from the Municipalities of Masantol, Pampanga, Paombong, Bulacan and Manila Bay. Its land area is 10,310 hectares and is almost 53 kilometers from Metro Manila.
According to the latest census (2002), the population of the town is 111,425 with 22,174 households.
|
Male |
56,418 |
|
Female |
55,007 |
|
Total |
111,425 |
At present, the town of Hagonoy has twenty six (26) Barangays. The latest were San Pablo and Iba Ibayo.
Barangay San Pablo was formerly a portion of Barangay San Pedro until it became a regular Barangay in 1968 and the Barangay Iba Ibayo , in 1986. .
On March 1968, Councilor Ato Bautista sponsored an ordinance creating the barrio of San Pablo. This was approved by the Municipal Council and signed by the Honorable Mayor, Emilio G. Perez. The new barrio comprised the portion of sitios of the Barrio San Pedro and the sitio Balakbak from Sta. Elena. In determining the boundaries of the new barrio, the Barrio Captain of Sta. Elena, Angel T. Bautista (not related to Councilor Ato. Bautista) expressed his objection to the inclusion of the sitio Balakbak to the newly created barrio. But he gave way when he saw the noble objective of the barrio creation. For final approval of the said ordinance, the entire Provincial Board of Bulacan headed by the Provincial Governor Ignacio Santiago held its special session at the residence Mr. Jacinto Jumaquio, Kaybaling. Without objection from the affected Barrios and their populace, the Prov. Board approved the creation of the Barrio San. Pablo.
The former name of Barangay San Pablo was Kaybaling, named after Dr.Valen Tanjutco because the Tanjustcos owned a rest house there, named CASITA FELIZA and agricultural fields. When it became a regular barangay, it called San Pablo in memory of St. Paul who was associated with St. Peter. Also it was so called because Don Pablo Tanjutco, former Presidente Municipal, now Municipal Mayor, owned vast track of land in the place.
Of the Barangays, Pugad and Tibiguin have special distinction because they are situated along the Manila Bay, an hour motor boat travel from the town proper.
Before the colonization of Hagonoy by Spaniards, its residents were Muslims. But they became Christians when they were baptized and embraced Christianity as early as in 1582. At present. the prevailing in members is the Catholics with at least 80% of the whole populace. Others belong to United Methodist Church, Iglesia ni Kristo, Born Again Christians, Dating Daan, Mormons, Seventh Day Adventists, etc.
The residents were indoctrinated with Christian religion. For many years they remained Catholic. Christian doctrine was taught at home and taught in schools.
Simple was the way of life. The mode of dressing was ordinary as many worn "kamisa de tsino" or "Barong Tagalog" for the male and "saya" and "sinamay" for the females. {Camisa de Tsino was a shirt worn by the local Chinese and the saya and sinamay were made of local fabrics}
On that period, More males received formal education than females. Females were considered then only for household.
The early residents were God-fearing, humane, caring, hospitable and charitable. This was evidenced when they received wholeheartedly the refugees from the Province of Bataan during the Second World War. Hagonoy became the cradle of safe and happy living during that war.
In the propagation of Christian faith, the local Catholic Church has five (5) organized parishes, namely: Sta. Ana, Sta. Elena, Sto. Rosario, Iba and San Juan and one (1) Quasi-Parish Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Help at San Pedro.
Hagonoy is known as a town of priests Many tried to become priests but only very few were chosen. Among those who were chosen were Bishop Pedro Bantigue, Mons. Jose Aguinaldo, Mons. Sabino Vengco, Jr., Mons. Emmanuel Sunga, Mons. Rico Santos, Mons. Ruperto del Rosario, Mons. Sotero Martin, Mons. Pascual Cruz, Mons. Juan Bautista, Padre Jose Ingco, at Padre Tirso Tomacruz, Padre Solomon Sebastian, Rufino Reyes, Cornelio Salamat, Arsenio Nicdao, Victorino, Mariano Saguinsin, Tranquilino Cruz del Rosario, Vicente Manlapig, Bartolome Bernabe, Antonio Benedicto, Simplicio Sumpaico, SJ, Ben Carreon, Padre Herminio Dagohoy (OP), Leon Coronel, Norman Reyes and other numerous young priests.
Rev. Fr. Enrico Crisostomo of Sto. Rosario is now studying at Pontificio Colegio Seminario Filipino, Rome, as scholar of the Dioceses of Malolos for further theological studies.
Rev. Fr. Tirso Tomacruz occupied the highest pedestal of honor because of his financial support to all seminarians from Hagonoy. Many of his scholars became priests.
However, some priests left their sacerdotal ministry to have their own families. Among them were Carmelo Bernardo and Eliseo Carreon
On the other hand, there were also some women from this town who entered in the monastery as nuns. Among them were Lourdes Cruz of Sta. Cruz, Sis. Ana Marie (Anatalia Alvarado) of Sto. Rosario, Claudia (Udyang) and Remigia (Reming) of Sta. Cruz (RVM) and Sis.Flora Bantigue (sister of Bishop Bantigue)of Sta. Monica.
Mariano and Valentin Macalinao, both nipa vendors from Hagonoy who had fixed space/store at Tondo and sold them at Moriones and Pritil heard the first Good News ("unang salita") of the gospel from the American missionaries. Since 1902, many brothers form Hagonoy began propagating the "bagong salita" of salvation..The first "kulto" (worship) and subsequent ""kulto"" were held at the house of Mariano Macalinao at San Sebastian .Among the first who were called included Aniceto T. Felipe, Pedro Aduna, Alejo and Agustin T. Cruz, Luciano Gonzales, Eustaquio Victoria, Narciso Vengco, Lucio Coronel, Castor de Pano, Sergio Velasco, Domingo Lopes, Perfecta Torres, Elias Fajardo, almost all were from San Nicolas.
In 1903, the first chapel, made of bamboo and nipa, was ereted in the present location of the United Methodist Church at San Sebastian. The construction cost of that chapel was from the voluntary contribution and assistance of poor members. The first Administrative Pastor was Rev. Luis Ocampo.
This was first called Methodist Episcopal Church and the first "Exhortador" included Aniceto T. Felipe and Pedro Aduna, followed by Segundo Danao and Simeon Talimada Cruz. During the time of Rev. David Candelaria (1938-46), it was renamed as United Methodist Church on the account of the merging of three biggest churches in America.
In 1964, the chapel was reconstructed with the assistance of Arch. Leonardo J. Victoria and Eng. Felimon Zafra, Sr. Rev. Osias Fajardo formed "Ecumenical" group among the Catholics and Methodists.[Victoria, Pablo , Souvenir Program, UMD, 1902-1985]
Recently the United Methodist Church celebrated its 100th year of existence. There were many colorful activities commemorating the great events participated by its members under the guidance of Rev. Denni Clavio, the present Administrative pastor.
Hagonoy is an agricultural town having fields and fishponds The farmers cultivated and planted rice and other agricultural plants and vegetables. Before the implementation of Land Reform Law they were just tenants working under the "Kasama System" but now they almost own the lands they cultivate. Their produce was more than enough for their needs. While the fishermen caught fish in the sea or in the rivers. Others were fishpond owners. Abundant was the produce then. The resident lived abundantly due to the fact that there were very people and the Mother Earth was not yet abused.. Different kinds of fishing paraphernalia and gears were in use. Among others were " abang, bukatot, baklad, saplad, pukot, palapad, dala, kitang, and bintol , galadgad, Norway", etc. to catch fish or any marine life in the sea or in the rivers. Fish, crabs, shrimps, etc. were abundant. But the reverse is now true in the modern sitting. Rivers and sea are now affected by pollution. Most of the rivers are silted. Fishponds are no longer producing enough. The rivers and sea are almost empty of marine life. No more "biyaya ng dagat"..
A few fishpond magnets became successful. Among them were the Suntays, Victoriano Raymundo, Maria Crisostomo, Ramona Trillana, Miguel Martin, Dr. Avelino Sebastian, Piling Cruz, Gregorio Apostol, Lorenzo Reyes, Hilarion Reyes, Alfredo Panganiban, Pablo Panganiban, Pilong Panganiban, Emilo G. Perez, Carlos Panganiban, Eloy Cabral, Hermogenes Perez, Magdalena Perez, Estelita dela Cruz Raymundo, Rufino Crisostomo, Sulpicio Reyes, David Reyes, Doroteo Reyes, Alejandro Balatbat, Maning Caparas, Narciso Lopez, Temyong de Guzman, Flora Crisostomo,
As large portion of Hagonoy is agricultural, the farmers organized their association or group led by Bonifacio Benedicto and Alfredo Tolentino to air their grievances against injustices as far as the implementation of Land Reform Program was concerned.
Before the agricultural produce was very abundant. But as the times went on, the natural resources were no longer responsive to the needs because of water pollution, lack of fresh water as salty water from the sea easily entered the fields through the Labangan Channel. Lack of rain water also contributed to the decreasing of field produce..
Some fields became barren. So, many were converted into subdivisions by developers. In 1973 Dr. Cenon Domingo was the first to file an application to convert a piece of land at the foot the Halang Bridge into a subdivision. But this was not acted upon by the Sangguniang Bayan because there was a Presidential Decree prohibiting such conversion.
Now, there are new and modern subdivisions constructed in Hagonoy. Among others are the Mary the Queen Subdivision at San Sebastian, owned by Dr Narciso S. Santos; Hagonoy Subdivision at the back of St. Mary Academy, owned by the Raymundos, Hagonoy Executive Subdivision, Sto.Nino, Contreras Subdivision, San Agustin, owned by Eng. Manuel Contreras and Vice Mayor Josie Ramos – Contreras; Villa Clara , San Sebastian, owned by BPI; Ramos Subdivision, San Agustin; and Bacoling Subdivision at San Juan.
As far as animal husbandry was concerned, poultry and piggery gained popularity. But now it is fading out and no longer profitable. Known poultry raisers were Remigio Castro of San Jose, Rus Hernandez of San Juan, and Geminiano Atienza of San Sebastian. Many residents from Sta. Elena, Iba, San Pable and San Pedro had their small piggery just to support the education of their children. For "balut" making famous were San Agustin and Sta. Monica.
For horticulture business, the Bulacan Garden is the most famous nationwide. Many are small horticulturists who own ornamental gardens from San Pedro, San Pablo, Karilyo, San Agustin, Palapat, Abulalas, and Iba.
For small merchandising business, fish, fruits, vegetables and other produce from Hagonoy are brought to Manila and other adjacent towns and provinces. Hagonoy has public markets and some Barangays have markets too, such as Sto. Rosario, San Agustin and Mercado. Mercado ( Spanish word means market) is the first among the Barangay flea markets.
Became famous was the Wood Craft Cruz Special, owned by G. Pablo T. Cruz of San Nicolas in furniture making like chairs, tables and beds made of bamboo. These were sold at the Hiyas ng Bulakan during the Administration of Gov. Santiago. Also they were exported.
San Nicolas became the center for "pawid" making from nipa. Mrs.. Laring Manahan Balatbat was one of the modern pioneers in this industry. "Pawid" were commonly used for house roofing then. Most "pawid" vendors came from San Nicolas and owned their own trucks for selling "pawid" in the neighboring places.
Other job opportunities for the people of Hagonoy include self-employment, employment at the public and private offices. Some are working abroad as Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW), such as seafarers, skilled workers and performing artists.
In shipping and maritime industry, Capt. Monico Manlapig, Capt. Macario Perez, Capt. Teodoro Bartolome, Capt. Jose Cruz, and Capt. Juliano are among those who commanded sea-going vessels. Capt. Manlapig owned the Seahorse Shipping Agency that helped many seafarers from Hagonoy. Vice Mayor Josefina R. Contreras was accountant of Marino Shipping, Capt. Juliano, Capt. Bartolome at Bernie Tamayo of Tibaguin were also in the industry..
In the oil industry, Leonardo P. Caparas of San Sebastian became successful as he continuously served onboard rigs in various positions for more than twenty year (20).He founded Southeastern Shipping and South Ocean, POEA accredited agencies authorized to recruit and deploy Filipino workers on rigs. Also he established a training center, known as OILWELL DRILLING TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT CENTER, INC., at # 98 A, Road 1 corner Road 3, Project 6, Quezon City, Philippines. This training center , accredited by the International Association of Drilling Contractors, conducts theoretical and practical aspects of the basic gas/oil rig safety, first aid, Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S)
Mayor Trillana pioneered the fishnet making in the Hagonoy under the supervision of the Gozamos, but it did not last long. Embroidery became household preoccupation of many women. The biggest shop was owned by Fe Saldana Tanjutco at Sto. Nino. It is now closed.
Isaac Tanjutco founded the MARINA Industries at Halang to process prawns before shipping them to Japan. It was now closed.
In 1947, Cyprian Villanueva started the "pundohan ng isda" (consignment of fish to vendors) at San Pascual which until now is very progressive. Gregorio Tamayo and Dominador Francisco opened their "pundahan" at Alakan, Sto. Rosario, but this was closed after some years. At present, there is a on-going "pundohan" at Sto. Nino for praws where many prawn vendors and businessmen gather every morning for this business. They buy and sell the prawns in the big restaurants and hotels in Manila.
The Alakan, Sto. Rosario, was formerly owned by the Elizaldes for wine processing from "tuba" (nipa juice) similar to that at Mercado. That place was temporarily made as the headquarter of the liberating American soldiers when they arrived in Hagonoy, sometimes in 1945. Now, the Alakan in Sto. Rosario is owned by the family of Marcelo Balatbat and presently occupied by tenants.
In 1947-52, many young boys gained employment and earned decent fruits of their own initiatives and sweat by selling newspapers from the stores owned by Balthazar Martin and Tomas Mangahas, :"pan de sal" from Sampaguita bakery, owned by c Chinese, Yama, married to a Filipina and ice drops from the store, owned by Simeon Carpio.
A portion of the income of the Municipality of Hagonoy comes from the rents of government-owned fishponds, as the local Catholic church owns "confradia" consisting of hundred hectares of fishponds. In 1968 the total annual earning from this lease of the said fishponds was more or less P103,000.00 The yearly rentals were low because the lessors were required to reclaim the lost portion of the fishponds. But this was not complied with. Another term of the lease contract was that the said fishponds could be not sub-leased to third persons. Again, this provision was violated and as a result, cases against certain Mariano Domingo and Gonzalo David were filled.
In his desire to increase the rentals of those fishponds, Councilor Ato Bautista researched and studied the possibility how could the local government take back the possession of those fishponds. He sought the legal opinion of the Office of the Provincial Fiscal. Prov. Fiscal Pedro Ofiana opined that as long as the contracts were valid, they could not be rescinded .
During martial law, he again tried to open the case. He approached then Sec. Ronaldo Zamora of the Presidential Legal Office for possible legal remedies to the case. He likewise said that it could be not possible unless there were strong evidence of violation. With the assistance of then Min. Ople, we brought our request to review the contracts to the Office of secretary Johnny Tuvera and to he Office of then Min. Vicente Abad Santos, Dept. of Justice. In his legal opinion, Min. Abad Santos said that the Municipality of Hagonoy cold initiate legal move at the Bulacan Court to re-possess those fishponds and subsequently lease them. His opinion was published on November 1, 1966 in the Bulletin Today as per news item written by Linda Bolido.
Councilors Eloy Cabral and . Ato Bautista consulted Atty. Angel C. Cruz anent this case. With the assistance of then Min. Blas Ople, and Mayor Hermogenes B. Perez , the case was formally referred to the Angel C. Cruz Law Office, at Intramuros, Manila. In a meeting held at Army and Navy Club, they agreed to file the information at the Bulacan Court. Finally the Municipal Mayor and all members of the Sangguniang Bayan filed the appropriate case sometimes in July 1977.Atty. Ciriaco Atienza of Angel C. Cruz Law Office was one of those who argued in the court defending the Municipality of Hagonoy. while the case was in progress, the opposite parties filed case in the Supreme Court to disqualify the Angel C. Cruz Law Office in appearing in behalf of the Municipality of Hagonoy on the ground that the any local government could not hire any private prosecutors as long as the services of the Office of the Provincial Fiscal were available. The said case was terminated in favor of the Municipality during the administration of Mayor Alvarado.
Since then, the rentals was tremendously increased amounting to million of pesos every year.
With respect to one parcel of fishpond titled to a certain person, the local government lost a very valuable property. Informatively, the said parcel, located at the Wawang Mayhagnoy, was leased to a certain Felix Reyes and suddenly titled to a certain Jose Santos of Malabon.
Mayor Emilio Perez and members of the Municipal Council approved a resolution to recover the possession of that fishpond, but of no avail. Similar move was done by Mayor Emilio Santos through the legal assistance of Atty. Rafael Suntay, but it did not proper.
When Councilors Bautista and Cabral made researches at the archives of the Bulacan Court, they found out that the case was already decided in favor of Mr. Santos and prescribed already.
The present records available at the Treasurer's Office, show the following data. they are located either at Pugad or at Tibaguin.
|
Parcel No.. |
Hectare |
|
Lot 1 |
37 |
|
Lot 2 |
98 |
|
Lot 3 |
68 |
|
Lot 4 |
|
|
Lot 5 |
21 |
|
Lot 6 |
74 |
|
Lot 7 |
|
Hagonoy was not behind as far as education was concerned. Before not all barrios had primary/elementary schools. Those who wanted to finish, they went to Hagonoy Elementary School until such time that the barrios had their own primary/elementary schools.
Some who showed interest in studying did not mind difficulty and hardship in going to schools by walking from their residence to schools. There were no passengers vehicles them like today.
After graduating from seventh grade, some who burned their midnight oils went to
Marcelo del Pilar High School, Malolos as there were no high schools yet
in Hagonoy except Hagonoy Institute and St. Anne's Academy.
.
At present, Hagonoy is so blessed that it has numerous high schools, private and
public. Hagonoy has the following number of schools:
|
Pre-school |
27 |
|
Elementary |
33 |
|
Secondary |
7 |
|
Tech. School |
1 |
|
Day Care Centers |
26 |
St. Anne’s Academy was started by the Sisters of the Religious of Virgin Mary (RVM). Its name was changed to St. Mary Academy with a newly constructed building.
Hagunoy Institute was founded in 1927 by those civic-minded people who cared for the education of the youth of Hagonoy. After that, the school was administered by a Board of Directors. In 1960s the Board of Directors was composed of G. Deogracias Flores, Amado Caballero, Jose Sy Santos, Marta B. Zuniga and Ms. Ramona Trillana who was responsible for the construction of the building at Mabini St., San Sebastian in 1956. Sec. Blas F. Ople studied in this school. The share of Mr. Jose Sy Santos was sold to Mr. and Mrs Tirso Joson. At present, the Board of Directors is composed of Ms.. Asuncion R. Trinidad, Chairperson, Ms. Melita C. Dionisio, Ms. Victoriana T. Crisostomo, Mr. . Ruben B. Martinez and the legal heir Ms.. Elisea B. Banag, who died last March, 2003. [Ms. Banag was widowed by Mr. Joson, her first husband]
Sometimes in 1947, St. Anne’s College was founded by Rev. Fr. Tinoy Rodriquez, the Parish Priest of Sta. Ana, with Boy Department under Ms. Valenta Garcia, as principal and a college department offering Elementary Teacher Certificate (ETC) Course under Dean Raymond Garcia. The ETC course was closed after the graduation in 1952, where the guest of honor and speaker was no less than the Vice President of the Philippines, Vice Pres. Fernando Lopez. St. Anne’s College became St. Anne’s Academy (Boy Dept) and now St. Anne’s Catholic High School under the directorship of Msgr. Macario Manahan.
The United Methodist Church also founded an "Ecumenical' School serving primary pupils for all walks of life..
The Holy Child School of Hagonoy, San Agustin, owned by Ms. Perla Alfonso and Godwin‘s Learning Center, Mary the Queen Subd., San Sebastian, owned by Marivic Aquino, were founded with a mission of quality education.
Sometimes in 1950, Rev. Fr. Virgilio Soriano founded the St. Anthony High School , but it did not last long..
In 1954, former Mayor Ramona Trillana opened the Southern Institute at Sto. Rosario. Almost in the same year, Mr. Deogracias Flores, founded Northern Institute, San Juan, later became Victorino Flores Memorial Institute.
It was unavoidable that barangay high schools sprouted in some barangays to serve and cater the less fortunate students.
Through the initiative of Rev. Fr. Eling Carreon, Parish Priest of Iba, with cooperation of the Sangguniang Nayon led by Barrio Capt. Trinidad Santos, IBA PTA and Sangguniang Bayan of Hagonoy with Mayor Maria Santos, Iba Barangay High School was established and founded. Its first principal was Ms.. Melania Torres.
After this, Councilor Ato. Bautista tried to convince the Barrio officials of Barrio councils of Sgda.Familia and Sta.Elena for the establishment of similar high schools in their respective places. But he became frustrated when they all rejected the ideas. If they did not oppose to this project, the pupils from Pugad, Tibaguin, San Pablo, Sgda. Familia and Sta. Elena might be the sure beneficiaries of that high school.
Successful were the establishments of Barangay high schools in Sta. Monica, San Pedro, and Sto. Rosario. The Southern Institute, where Congressman Willy Sy Alvarado studied high school, was donated by the Trillana Family to the local government of Hagonoy during the administration of the then Mayor Alvarado. It is now known as Mayor Ramona S. Trillana High School. The Victorino Flores Memorial Institute was closed due to the opening of Barangay High Schools in adjacent places. The Hagonoy Institute was greatly affected as far as registration was concerned. Many students enrolled Barangays High School at Sto. Rosario, Sta. Monica and San Pedro.
Many observed that the barangay schools accepted excessive number of students as per legal requirement. As such, they feared that the quality of teaching and education may be sacrificed just to accommodate as many students as possible.
Hagonoy Institute opened Hagonoy Institute of Techonology in 1994 to offer Computer Science and Mechanical/Electrical Technology. This is the first technical school in town with TESDA Bulacan accreditation.
The public schools is divided into two districts: West District and East
District, having the following statistical data for the School Year 2002-2003:
|
Particular |
West District |
East-District |
Total |
|
Supervisor |
1 |
1 |
2 |
|
Teachers |
|
213 |
|
|
Barangay |
13 |
13 |
26 |
|
Pupils |
|
|
|
Despite poverty, many students burned their midnight oils and succeeded in molding their minds to search for new learning in all field of education, such as teaching, law, medicine, engineering, architecture, agriculture, military science, commerce, arts, etc.
Among the well known educators were Dr. Dalmacio Martin, Pavia C. Castro, Leticia Salazar, Dr. Salud del Rosario-Joaquin, Dean Raymundo Garcia, G. Fortunato Narciso, Virginia Hernandez, Pavia C. Tomacruz, Pilar Santos, Dr. Gavino Carpio, Milagros Liongson, Mercedes S. Santos, Dr. Ofelia Lacas, Melita Dionisio, Dr. Carolina Payongayong Danao. Jose Santos, at Alfonso Tolentino from public schools.
From private schools, excelled were. Valenta Garcia, Ramona S. Trillana, Saturnina Flores, Elisea B. Banag, G. Amado Caballero, Deogracias Flores, Tirso Joson, Antonio Tamayo, Jaime Sumpaico, Salud Reyes, etc..
In the field of law, Don Ambrocio Santos, Pablo S. Trillana III, Maximino Tolentino, Pascual Lacas, Conrado Mangahas, Franscisco Estrella, Popoy Reyes, Angel Cruz, Arturo Cruz, Ingco, Amado Reyes, Elpidio Santos, Dominador Catalig, Modesto Flores, Hector Crisostomo, Franscisco Jose, Domingo Reyes, Fortunato Panganiban, Nathaniel de Pano, Ruben Reyes, Ciriaco Atienza, Felipe Magat, Hector Crisostomo. Rosario Cruz, Benigno Vivar, Feliciano Torres, Jose Torres, Amor Reyes, Gloria Santos, Tirso Reyes, etc.
Tirso Reyes, Elpidio Santos, Arturo Cruz, Fortunato Panganiban, Jose Bautista, Rosario Cruz, Amor Reyes, Maximino Tolentino, and José Torres became judges. Nathaniel de Pano and Ruben Reyes became Justices of the Court of Appeals. Feliciano Torres became assistance Provincial Fiscal of Bulacan.
Known in the field of medicine are Dr. Agapito Balatbat, Perseveranda Robles Espino, Pedro Reyes, Ignacio Dionisio, Rufino Crisostomo, Jose del Pilar, Avelino Sebastian, Jose Carasig, Renato Carasig, Santiago Panganiban, Juan Santos, Jesus Tomacruz, Mamerta Catalig, Maria Garcia Santos, Augusto Trillana, Hernani Pulumbarit, Zotico Centeno, Elmer Carasig, Pedro Santos, Ricardo Trinidad, Narciso Lopez, Alipio Roque, Damaso Salvador, David Jose, Francisco Jose Pedro Santos, Poncing Soriano, etc.
Dr. Trinidad became Region III Director and Dr. Centeno, Director of Mayor Emilio G. Perez District Hospital. Dr. Salvador became one of the highest medical officers in V. Luna Hospital.
The followers of Nightingale were Herminigildo Sumpaico, Eufrocina Guevarra, Raquel Lina, Cecil del Pilar in the modern times while Anicia Reyes in the past..
In painting, the Hagonoy Art Group, founded by Phillip Victor, became the first organized group of artists in Hagonoy and the biggest in membership throughout the province of Bulacan. Some became renown and famous like Pablo Victoria, Dean, College of Fine Arts, UE, Cenon Rivera, Dean, College of Fine Arts, UST, Phillip Victor, Installation and Experimentalist artist, Al Perez of Sta. Cruz, Representative Artist , Carlos Cadid of Tibaguin, Realism Artist, Gliff Victor of Sgda. Familia, Folk Surreal Artist, Mark Victor, Sgda. Familia, Cubism Artist, Reyes Reyes, Inspirational Artist..
Felino T. Leon contributed much of his precious time in architecture. He was one of the highest official in Public Works.
Engr. Fortunato Reyes of Mercado, Dalmacio Ramos of San Agustin, and the Ablazas of San Nicolas became successful in construction.
. Engr. Serafin Vasquez of San Jose prepared a gigantic task to make the dream realized in having a coastal highway from Manila to Bataan. Although approved by the then President Ferdinand Marcos, the said project was not materialized because of a historical event that took place.
Engr. Felimon Zafra and G. Melencio Raymundo led in the construction of streets in Sgda. Familia, Sta.Elena and other places..
In dentistry, Drs. Gabriel Morales, Conrado Salamat, Rodrigo Concepcion, Bernardo Balatbat, Eugenia Reyes, Igmedio Reyes, Mariano Perez, Estilita Ramos Oilivas, Romy Domingo, Daniel Cruz, Pacifico Ramos, Marites Zuniga-Santos, Bernardo Balatbat and Teddy Reyes become prominent and ready to serve the public at any time..
In optometric sector, dedicated to their valuable services to the public are Dr. Valentin Roque, Sr., Dr. Valentin Roque, Jr., Ruby Reyes Cabral, and Ana Da Jose Reyes.
Noticeable was the shinning armor of a humble mechanic from Olandes, San Jose in the person of Jose Hernandez. who excelled in his field leading to the founding of a bus transportation, Victory Liner, plying from Caloocan City to Northern Parts of Central Luzon. During the war. he fabricated laundry soap. Many were employed to sell his products in all barrios and in the market.
Mr. Hernandez together with his brother-in-law Eugenio Trinidad ran the transportation company smoothly to service the public. He was in charge of the shop and Mr. Trinidad, in the administration assisted by Mr. Lucio Santos and Mr. Celestino Dalmacio. Vic Trinidad was the one who managed the TRITRAN with line from Cubao to Southern part of Luzon (Southern Tagalog Region)
In the arts of writing, movies, mass media, Hagonoy also occupied highest place. Amado V. Hernandez of Sgda Familia, and Rolando Bartolome of San Jose, were all Palanca Awardees for literature and poetry.. Ka Uding is a famous radio commentator who is fearless in constructive criticism and just and fair in praising those who ought to be praised. Jane Panganiban of San Juan, a former high school teacher, is a radio commentator. George Carino of Sta. Elena is a radio reporter. Rod Reyes, a writer, held many sensitive positions in the government. Federico Mangahas was a speech writer of some Philippine Presidents and also held numerous sensitive positions in the government. For writing educational books, Jose Salazar did use his precious times in researches and writings, particularly the 100 Mamamayang Taga Hagonoy. Tomas Santos and Ricardo de Luna were known for their writings published in Tagalog magazines, like Liwayway at Bulaklak. Gen. Miguel Coronel wrote Pro Democracy People's War, 1991. He has brilliant military services as a product of Class 65 Philippine Military Academy where he graduated with a PC Award of Academic Excellence. He has Masteral Degrees in Political Science (1873) and in Economics, 1975 from the University of the Philippines. For his acknowledged dedications and bravery beyond the call of duty, he as awarded 4 Bronze Cross Medals, 11 Military Merit Medals with one Spearhead Service and 2 Military Commendation Medals, Officer of the Year 1988, Provincial Commander/Police Supt. of the PC/INP Command of the Year 1987 and Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) 1986. Tomas F. Agulto of Sgda. Familia, wrote Ang Pinakamagandang Babae sa Sta. Elena, 1989, a compilation of poems, essays and story stories depicting the real situations affecting poor fishermen and the atrocities of particular events. He is a fisherman, poet, nobelist and essayist. He received wards from Palanca and Cultural Center of the Philippines. He was chosen Poet of the Year 1988 from Gawad Surian sa Tula ng Linangan ng mga Wika sa Pilipinas for his poem "Polusyon". Councilor Cesar Villanueva wrote the lyric of a song, "HAGONOY" in 1977 and Celerina D. Jumaquio supplied the notes. This became the Official hymn of Hagonoy sung inthe celebration of 400th year of Christianization of the town in 1982..
Jaime Sumpaico and Manuel Guevarra used the sharpness of their pens in composing poems to proclaim the truth relative to religion. Dr. Dalmacio Martin also employed his talent in writing educational books used in many schools. He began writing the history of Hagonoy but because of his death, he was not able to finish it. Francisco Calalang made tremendous researches to write the History of Bulakan. He was one of the writers in the Ministry of Labor and Employment . Former Councilor Dr. Jose Sy Tamco translated Medical Dictionary into Pilipino. Msgr.. Jose Aquinaldo wrote also many religious writings including poems. Atty. Pablo S. Trillana III wrote the Loves of Rizal.
On the stage performance, the Samahang Pagpalain, founded by Kiko Cruz and Mat Torres of Sta, Monica, was first organized even before the war. . This performed stage shows during barrio fiestas. The passion play, known as " sinakulo" became prominence in San Sebastian, San Agustin, Sta. Cruz and Sgda. Familia. But the performane of some selected youth from San Sebastian earned honor and distinction when they performed on stage, Puso ng Hagonoy, the passion play, entitled Jesus Christ the Superstar, Rock Opera. The role of Jesus Christ was played by no less than Cesar Villanueva, now a Municipal Councilor.
During the Holy Week, there are flagellants, locally called ":hampas dugo" hitting themselves at the self-inflected wounds at their back. On their ways to church, when they hear the reading and singing of the "pasyon", a book about the life and death of Christ written by Father Pilapil, they stop and let themselves beaten while lying flat on the ground. Others carry wooden crosses and walk along the street from their point of origin to the point of destination, usually the church..
In singing, Boy Sulivan and his group the Haring Solomon, and Mar Lopez, who has weekly program over DWIZ, are continuously performing locally and abroad as performing artists. Florence Aguilar and Annabel Rivas made their contributions in this field. In the movie, the boy, Armando Santos, from Sgda. Familia, appeared in various movies together with Efren Reyes, Sr. Franciso Cruz, known as Kiko, also appeared in numerous films or movies. Timmy Cruz of San Juan is consistently rising in the highest level of performance as a singer and as an artist. Leny Flores of San Juan became the talk of the town when she captured the second place to Regine Velasquez, in the Tawag ng Tanghalaan, during the final competition.
Sun Theater was the oldest cinema house in town. It was closed during the war and re-opened after the liberation. In Sto. Rosario Simeon Rodriquez opened and operated a cinema house but it did not last long,. The Azucena Theater, owned by the Santos's and then by Sorianos, was opened in the poblacion. It lasted longer. The cinema house at the Puso ng Hagonoy was owned and operated by the family of Atty. Lourdes Lontok-Cruz..
All cinema houses did not last longer due to the advent of betamax and video tapes that capture everyone's desire to stay at home comfortably while viewing movies.
The public school teachers led by Messrs. Melencio Medina, Dominador Bautista, Lucio Santos, Maximo Reyes, etc. formed a group of "rondalya" (a musical group using native string instruments, like guitar, Hawaiian guitar, drum, etc) The group performed in all school activities and earned distinction of being the best in Hagonoy. The Cumbacheros from San Nicolas under the manager ship of Tomas Atienza and from San Jose were the most famous in musical extravangza.
In brass band, Hagonoy became nationally known in all competitions as it won crowd of laurel of victory under the baton of Prop. Felipe T. Leon. Among its members, Mr. Nicanor Castro, of Banda Malaya was a multi -awarded in playing clarinet. Benigno Villanueva, Agaton Gregorio, and Ninoy Dionisio of San Sebastian also contributed for the progress of the Hagonoy brass band. The brass Band of San Roque under managership of the Bernabes also excelled in performing "serenata" during barrio fiesta. (Serenata is the actual competitive performance of two brass bands playing selected musical pieces done especially at the night of the barrio fiesta.) Also known was Prof. Jose Robles in music. For particular, Councilor Jose Santos and Dr. Hernani Pulumbarit were skilled and prominent in playing saxophone.
Being a Catholic town, Hagonoy celebrates annual fiesta in the honor of Sta. Ana, the patroness of the oldest parish Sta. Ana, the National Shrine on July 27 every year, the birth date of Sta. Ana. It is also celebrated in the last Sunday of April every year. Customarily, the Hermano Mayor is the local Chief Executive. Its Barangays also hold annual celebrations, particularly in the months of April and May. The celebration of fiestas is a part of long time tradition wherein the inhabitants give thanks to the Almighty God for all the benefits abundantly received through the intercession of their patrons and/or patroness. Almost all Barangays are named after the names of saints. The whole streets of the Barangay are colorfully decorated with different art papers and well lighted. Sto. Nino was the first Barangay (then Barrio) to display the most beautiful and colorful street decoration and followed by most all Barangays.. The brass bands are hired or contracted to play music throughout the affairs and march at the entire streets and play music during processions. The brass bands usually participate in the "serenata" held at the church yard Men of different walk of life attend to this serenata. At the night of the actual fiesta celebration, a group of stage artists perform musical numbers, including singing, dancing and staging drama usually held at the church yard
The climax of the celebration is centered in the celebration of the holy masses to express thanksgivings to God. The holy mass then was either "misa cantada" (mass being sung by the celebrant) or "misa dalmatica" ( a mass concelebrated by three priests) Now, "misa cantada" is very common. After the misa mayor (main mass), the processions of the icons of the patrons are carried and paraded throughout the main parochial streets. The said processions are accompanied by "Hermano Mayor:, Capitanes/capitanas' (volunteered individual devotees). The most famous of these fiestas are those of Sta.Elena and Sta.Ana. People from distant places come to attend to these fiestas. Every May 4, a multitude of religious pilgrims and deeply devotees of Sta.Elena flock and gather at the Parish of Sta. Elena to attend the holy masses and participate in the long-line and crowded procession in her honor.
Sometime in 1951, when Councilor Victoriano Raymundo of Sta.Cruz became the "Hermano Mayor" of Sto. Rosario, the High Mass was celebrated by the Bishop of Manila. Bishop Vicente Reyes, and the seminarians from San Carlos Seminary did the singing accompanying the mass. It was the first time that a High Mass in the barrio fiesta was celebrated by a bishop. Now, there are times that the Bishop of Malolos say high mass during the fiesta of some parishes.
During summer time in the month of May, called the Month of Flowers, "santakrusan" is held in almost every Barangay. Santakrusan is a traditional celebration commemorating the finding of the Holy Cross by St. Helen. A procession of beautiful maidens of the places or those invited from other places is carefully arranged and paraded along the streets Usually different beautiful women who impersonate the Queen Helen locally called "Reyna Elena" together with a little boy as her consort representing King Constantine, the son of Queen Helen, are the apple's eye of the celebration. There are also different "Reinas", "damas" and other participants symbolizing different roles, known by the symbols they hold in hand during the procession.
In poem recitation. . Ciriaco Francsico of San Nicolas, Fe Aguinaldo Sunpongco of San Jose, Manual Guevarra of Mercado were well known. Tomas F. Agulto of Sgda. Familia was acclaimed to be the best as he was chosen as the Poet of the Year.
Before, there were no doctors in the barrio. The old folks relied only on the :quack doctors and local unschooled midwives. The use of herbal medicines was common during those times.. They became contented in using herbal leaves as alternatives in curing whatever they felt wrong with their bodies or feeling.
With modern technology and sciences in all fields, there are many physicians and midwives available to render services particularly to the poor..
The foremost was the Hagonoy Puericulture founded by civic minded people of Hagonoy to take care the deliveries and out patients. Among those who sacrificed their lives in extending assistance to the poor, were Anicia T. Reyes, Dra. Perseveranda Robles-Espino, Nurse Anicia T. Reyes, Ms. Marta B. Zuniga, at Nana Oray Balatbat Bautista, a Registered Midwife. This Center was supported financially through voluntary contribution from the people of Hagonoy. During the administration of Mayor Hermogenes Perez, the Municipal Council under sponsorship of Councilor Ato. Bautista, appropriated fund to subsidize the operation of the Center with appointments of some health workers.
On the other hand, the Municipal Health Center was founded and maintained to service the poor sectors of the Hagonoy. particularly during the times of Dr. Agapito Balatbat, Dr. Santiago Panganiban, Dr. Juan Santos and Dr.Leonardo "Totoy" Tobias. The health service is extended to some Barangay by establishing 18 Medical Centers with assigned midwives. Dr. Rommel Pajela, Hernani Pulumbarit, Purificacion T. Raz and Dr. Teddy Reyes, a dentist, are assigned to look for the welfare of our local patients.
Through the effort of former Mayor Emilio G. Perez, together with the members of the Municipal Council, a municipal hospital was erected in this town. Congressman Teodulo Natividad provided for the funding of this hospital from the bill he filled in Congress. This hospital is now known as Mayor Emilio G. Perez District Hospital.
This hospital was supposed to be erected at the coastal area but there was no lot for it. Mayor Perez tried to negotiate with the Ramirez of San Nicolas for the purchase their lot at the foot of the Sto. Rosario - San Nicolas Bridge but the said negotiation was not materialized.
Since there was no alternative but to selective a lot within the heart of poblacion. Mayor Perez used his diplomacy to talk with all concerned to allow the use of the Hagonoy Elementary School garden, just a stone throw from the municipal building, where it is now located. Its first Director was Dr. Jose Buhain.
Some of its initial materials were donated by the US-AID through the assistance and representation of Secretary Marcelo Balatbat..A Proper turn-over of these materials was done in Hagonoy. The mis-use of these materials caused the misunderstanding between Mayor Maria Garcia and Councilor Ato Bautista. On his request, the case was first investigated by Sgt.Sumera and then by Provincial Inquest Fiscal of Bulacan, Prov. Fiscal Vic Ventura. The Bulacan Medical Association assisted her to stay at the provincial hospital and through the assistance of Cabinet Secretaries he was able to stay at home under "house arrest". This case was made a political issue during the campaign period when she ran for Vice Mayoral race against the candidate Josefina R. Contreras, who is now the Vice Mayor of Hagonoy. Yet she won over Ms. Contreras.
For private initiatives to provide medical assistance, Dr. Pedro Reyes erected the Sta. Ana Hospital and Dr. Ignacio Dionisio, St. Ignatius Hospital, both located at San Sebastian. The Dr. Batallones rented Sta. Ana Hospital until he erected his own San Agustin General Hospital, at San Agustin. The latest hospital is now located at Halang, Hagonoy.
During Martial Law, the national government regularly supplied all health centers with boxes of medicine with inscription MARCOS. (Medical Aid to Rural Communities and Other Sorties)
Under the Code of Local Government of 1991, all health personnel were devolved and transferred to local governments. It means the local government units are responsible for the allocation of funds, appointment, salaries and wages of all personnel and complete operation of local hospital and health centers. Aids from national government and from some members of the Philippine Congress are continuously doled out to maintain their operation and functions.
The Office of the Municipal Mayor consistently and regularly holds medical missions in different Barangay. Volunteered physicians and other medical officers from Manila or from other places are invited to participate in this noble undertaking of the Municipal Mayor.
The Health Center has health personnel and other pertinent data based on its report for the year 2002, as follows:
Doctors-3; Nurses - 4; Medical Technologist - 1; Dentists - 2; Dental Assistant - 1; Non-Technician - 1; Midwives- 22; Engineer/Sanitary Inspectors - 2; Active Barangay Health Workers - 149 and Trained Birth Attendants - 10;
For environmental protection, Hagonoy has households with sanitary toilets - 14,728; with sanitary garbage diisposal - 14,728; complete sanitation facilities - 14,728; food establishments -508; with sanitary permits - 508; food handlers- 689 and with sanitary permits - 689.
The number of delivered babies was 647. Male - 329 and Female -318. Number of death was 647. Male - 329 and Female -318.
After the World War, Mayor Dominador Catalig reconstructed the town. He caused the repair of streets and some buildings. Since the income of the municipality was small and no enough funds were allocated some roads were not repaired as they should be. Damaged roads were patched with light materials which could be easily wiped out once there was flood or rain. Thus they remained like a creek, popularly called as "Sapang Catalig"
As times went by, some portions of the roads were cemented from the Pork Barrel allocation of Congressman Teodulo Natividad. After the biggest flood in 1972, the longest part of Hagonoy Road was cemented through the project of US AID with the valuable assistance and joint effort of Sec. Blas Ople, Mayor Perez and Municipal Council. This project included roads from San Juan, San Pedro, San Pascual, San Jose, Mercado, Sto. Rosario, Sta. Cruz, San Sebastian and San Nicolas. But the Sgda Familia and Sta. Elena was cemented through the efforts of Councilor Ato. Bautista with the assistance of Min.. Blas Ople, Min. Baltazar Aquino of the Dept. of Public Works through the help extended by Leonardo Balatbat, Poling Arellano, Serafin Vasquez and Benigno Villanueva. Historically, Minister Aquino was the first Public Work Minister who personally visited and inspected the dilapidated Kaysuka Bridge before giving the necessary fund for its construction. However, a little port of the Sta. Elena-Sgda. Familia roads were cemented during the administration of Mayor Perez, the fund of which came from BIR allotment..
Almost all barrio bridges were made of bamboos, then lumbers and later concrete materials. The Tulay Kaysuka at Sta. Elena-Sgda Familia was constructed the fund of which came from the discretionary funds of Minister . Baltazar Aquino of the Ministry of Public Works through the assistance of Minister Ople through the efforts of Councilor Ato. Bautista and Mayor Perez. Min. Aquino together with Gov. Santiago and Provincial Disctrict Engineer Sison personally inspected that bridge. That brigde was constructed by the construction company of then Mayor Buhain of Plaridel in 1979-80. The San Roque Bridge, and the bridge connecting San Jose and the Poblacion and some of small Barangay bridges were constructed or repaired during the administration of Mayor Willy Alvarado. Mayors Emilio Perez, Emilio Santos, Maria Garcia, at Toti Ople had also repaired or constructed some roads and bridges during their times.
When the public market was destroyed by fire in 1957, the Mayor Ramona S. Trillana, a Liberal, did not hesitate to approach President Carlos P. Garcia, a Nationalist, for financial assistance to reconstruct the market. Notwithstanding the fact that they belonged to different political parties, Mayor Trillana considered most the welfare of her town. President Garcia responded and a new public market was constructed. However, the same market was again destroyed by fire sometimes in 1987 during the time of the Officer-in -Charge Willy Alvarado, He exerteed much effort to secure from the Aquino Government the needed fund for the reconstruction of the market. He did it successfully.
During the administration of former Mayor Hermogenes Perez, the other portion of the public market, left side toward the bridge. was constructed, the fund of which was loaned from the government bank. Mayor Alvarado worked for the condonation of the loan from the Aquino Government.
During administration of Mayor Alvarado, the historical Gabaldon School Building was demolished and in its place was constructed a modern two storey public market building and caused the transfer of school at the Mary the Queen Subdivision. The buildings housing the Police Force, the Post Office, Aldaba Health Center and the Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy Clinic and the Monument of the Hagonoy Unknown Soldiers were also constructed during his times..
The Municipal Treasurer's Office was put up during the administration of then Mayor Trillana. The Tennis Court and Barangay Hall, during the term of Mayor Perez and the Parking Area in front the Office of the Sangguniang Bayan, Mayor Ople.
The construction of school buildings were the joint efforts of local, provincial and national governments. Then there were Macapagal Buildings, Bagong Lipunan Buildings and now school buildings donated by Senator Ople, Congressman Alvarado and Gov. Jose de la Cruz.
Some Provincial Governors, like Alejo Santos, Tomas Martin, Jose Villarama, Ignacio Santiago, Roberto Pagdaganan and Josie de la Cruz in cooperation and coordination with the Municipal Mayor and Barangay Captains, many school buildings for both elementary and barangay high schools were constructed.
During Martial Law, Eng. Susing Contreras, and Engr. Jose Regalado of the Bulacan Provincial Engineers’ Office, Col. Simeon Ver, Phil. Army Brigade were the leading personalities that helped in the construction of public school houses. Minister Castaneda and Engr. Tiongson of the Ministry of General Services facilitated the release of Home Economics Buildings for Sta. Elena, Sgda Familia and San Roque Elementary Schools through the efforts of Councilor Ato. Bautista.
The Local School Board also set aside some of its funds for the repair of school houses, purchase of educational materials and aids.
Water is the basic necessity of all men. The local government operated Water Works and had two sub-stations at Sto. Rosario and San Agustin. This Water District served a portion of the town and its service was not sufficient and abundant. When the NAWASA law was enacted, it took the ownership and operation of the Hagonoy Water Works. Mayor Emilio Santos, with legal assistance of Atty. Rafael Suntay, filed legal action against NAWAS
A for the recovery of Hagonoy Water Works. He succeeded but still the service was not too much responsive to the need of the entire populace.
It was observed that the Hagonoy Water Works consumed much as it earned. There was a time when its income was only approximately P47,000.00 per year, yet its approximate expenses was P103,000.00. Mayor Perez allowed the drilling of new artesian wells in some barrios and their extensions. Time came when the Local Water Utility Administration was created. Councilor Ato. Bautista authored an ordinance requesting LWUA to include Hagonoy in its service. With the help of Engr. Santos from San Agustin who was then an employee of LWUA and a former student of Councilor Bautista in high school, the request reached and caught the attention of its Chairman, Carlos Leano. Subsequently it was approved. The members of the Municipal Council who participate actively in this project were Councilors Ato Bautista, Nestro Tinio at Leoncia Ramos and of course, the active cooperation of Mayor Perez.
For this purpose, a Memorandum of Agreement was inked between the Municipal Mayor with the presence of then Vice Governor Bernardo Ople and officers of LWUA. The operation of Hagonoy Water District is very effective and responsive to the need of the whole populace as it is now servicing 100% of the town. Noticeable are the efficient and effective administration of the Board headed by Engr. Manuel Contreras and full implementation under the stewardship of Engr. Celestino Vengco, its Manager.
When Col.. Manuel Syquio became Secretary of Public Works and Transportations, he planned the opening of a road at then Kaybaling, now San Pablo connecting it to the barrio of Sta. Elena. Mayor Perez, Councilor Ato. Bautista, and Jacinto Jumaquio conferred with him about the project. The plan was made but much delayed due to "right of way" problems. Mr. Jumaquio approached and talked with the owners of the lots affected to donate them to pave the way of constructing the road from the San Pablo to Sta.Elena. Even Undersecretary Alvarez, a resident of Abulalas, of the Department of the Dept. of Public Works also helped in the realization of the project. At last, during the administrations of Mayor Alvarado and Mayor Ople the concreting of the bridges and road from Wakas, Sta.Elena to San Pablo was materialized.
The Crisostomo Park in front of St. Mary Academy is one of the centers of attraction. It was formerly a "gloryeta" but demolished during the time of Mayor Emilio Perez to give way for the construction of a park. This was constructed by the Hagonoy Question Mark Club led by its two presidents, Luis Ople and Aurora Syquio
Councilor Ato Bautista and Mayor Hermogenes Perez with publicity assistance of Mr. Jose Padilla, Jr. aimed to improve the Aroma Beach at Tibaguin. The place was very appropriate venue for swimming and beach parties and for viewing the beauty of sunset. But the project remained a beautiful dream of forgetfulness. The National Shrine of Sta. Ana, the Monument of Capt. Tiago Trillana of the Philippine Revolution and the Monument of the Unknown Soldiers at Tangos, San Nicolas are very interesting places for the tourists to visit and see. As mentioned above, every May 4, the fiesta of Sta. Elena attracts pilgrims and devotees from different places to participate in honoring her as many believe that she miraculously cures the sickness of some persons and hears the petition of the devotees for their needs.
By nature, the residents of Hagonoy are very brave, dynamic and energetic. They laid down their lives for the defense of the country against the enemies. During the Philippine Revolution against Spain, Capt. Santiago Trillana, Capt. Manuel Garcia, Capt. Maximo Angeles , Capt. Hermogenes Reyes, were among the bravest solders. While Jose Panganiban became famous propagandist and also other revolutionary leaders and soldiers used their respective weapons to topple down the Spanish government in the country. Their bravery and dedication are engraved in the heart and memory of each Hagonoy folks and the young generation.
During the Second World War II, many young men of the town took arms against the Japanese soldiers. Their spirit of bravery, nationalism and patriotism boiled the blood in their veins to fight until the end. They were seen in actions in Bataan and Corregidor battles side by side with American soldiers. They also endured the hardship, hunger, thirst. starvation and sickness during this time and the infamous Death March from Bataan to Capas, Tarlac. Became heroes of their making were Ulpiano Trillana, Willis Viri, Serafin Vasquez, Leonardo Balatbat, Blas Ople, Max Macale, Eliseo Vengco, Manuel Syquio, Mateo Santos, Apolonio Reyes and others.
The HUKBALAHAP (Hukbo ng Bayan Laban sa Hapon- People's Army against Japanese), also fielded many young men including Tata Mandong Perez of San Jose. They fearlessly fought against Japanese soldiers and many of them were killed in the defense of the country. But to their dismay and frustration, they were never recognized by the American government under Gen. Douglas MacArthur who disliked their supremo Luis Taruc. However, President Marcos issued proclamation during Martial Law period recognizing them as war veterans accorded with all benefits.
After the war, many former soldiers continued their military services in the Armed Forces of the Philippines in various capacities. Some of them were Col. Manuel Syquio, Comm. Simeon Castro, Hen. Manuel Flores, Col. Domingo Reyes. Col. Sotero Morales
In the following years, many young men aimed to study at the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) to become someday military officers. Some of the were Capt. Rene Syquio, Gen.. Miguel Coronel, Gen. Domongo Reyes II, Gen. Doroteo Reyes II, Geronimo of San Sebastian at Capt. Bong Marcelino of Sta. Elena.
It is unforgettable to remember the past where loving, caring and defense of the Filipino labor force is the sole instrument of labor leaders to uplift and optimize the living condition of the masses oppressed by the capitalists. Apo Amado Hernandez of Sgda.Familia, Simeon Rodriquez of San Roque and other labor leaders in their strong and firm conviction, full of hope, to liberate the masses from poverty were accused of being "Politburo" by the administration of President Elpidio Quirino in 1948, in violation of the Anti Subversion Law. They were incarcerated in the National Penitentiary, Muntinlupa. where Apo Amado Hernandez wrote the "Ibong Mandaragit". In the defense of their illustrated lawyer, Jose P. Laurel, they were acquitted of complex crime by the Supreme Court. This decision become known as Hernandez Doctrine in the legal world.
A farmer and fisherman from San Jose, Sonny "Boy" Perez, became "Bayani ng Hagonoy" when he and other farmers were massacred at Mendiola, on January 22, 1987. Their groups were at Mendiola, a place fronting the Malacanang Palace, the Official Residence of the Philippine President. They were demonstrating peacefully airing their grievances when suddenly a burse of fires came from all sides of the places hitting many demonstrators. Many were killed but their spirit is still living. The Association of Fishermen led by Barrio Captain Ramon Atienza was recognized nationwide in protecting the rights of fishermen.
Known for being a peaceful and orderly town, Hagonoy is very ideal place to live in as there are not forests nor mountains where the lawless elements may have their haven. It is surrounded by water and sea.
Even during the Japanese occupation, there were no major armed encounters that took place in Hagonoy, but the one between the guerillas and HUKBALAHAP at San Pascual.. There were Japanese soldiers. Some were quartered at public school buildings and guarded and check pointed every road intersection. Because of fear and for safety, some residents made their hideouts at the rice fields or at nipa swamp.
The local police forces could maintain peace and order of the town. No untoward incidents happened after the war. When Andres Laderas became the Chief of Police, all lawless elements of the society were wiped out. He did not stop until his mission of a peaceful Hagonoy was a reality. Then, a notorious guy, Blackie, was killed during an encounter when he fought back against the police at the roof of the Azucena Theater. The other Chiefs of Police demonstrated the abilities and strategies in making Hagonoy free of crimes included Fidel Mangahas, Abraham Ramos, Col. Modequillo and others.
The Barangay Tanod (Peacekeeping Barangay Guards)under the leadership of their respective Barangay Captains moves heaven and earth to maintain peace and order in their areas of responsibilities. They are every effective in eliminating all forms of crimes, including use of illegal drugs. Curfew hours is now being implemented for persons below 18 years old.
The darkness of events came after Martial Law. A group, known the "Leftists" stolen the scenario that placed the town in the map when many people did not want to go to Hagonoy. Killing was an ordinary scene. Everybody feared his life. Also a group, called BANGKILAS, an association of fisherman, saw its birth with new ideology against the rich, particularly fishpond owners who did not treat their tenants justly and fairly However, their rank was infiltrated by bad elements, terrorizing, extorting money, and other illegal acts. Some were good guys. Ka Vicky and Ka Sergio were allegedly known local leaders. Ka Vicky was killed in Malolos. Ruben Guevarra, a former activist became one of the highest leaders of the New People's Army ( NPA) but he returned to the fold of law through the assistance of then Congressman Teodulo Natividad.
The Leftists fought against the government forces for an ideology and objectives understandably foreign to the masses. They killed some civilians and members of Police Force, namely: Cesar Reyes of Sgda. Familia, Ramon Villanueva of Sta.Monica, Max Bautista of San Sebastian, Capt. Rogelio Santos of Sto. Rosario, Artemio Panganiban of San Pascual and Rudy Felipe of Sta. Elena assigned at Malolos
There was a bloody encounter that took place at the military detachment at Tangos, Sto. Rosario in 1989. Many were killed in both sides. This sowed fear and unrest among the local residents.
The campaign for peace and order was almost a reality but fear again reigned in the hearts of many people. The report of rampant killing of alleged drug pushers and users broke the chain of the crusade for maintaining peace and order. However, such report was welcomed by civic minded people that only such act would stop the plague of illegal drugs. They were regarded in local parlance as "anay ng lipunan" ( terminates of the society)
During the incumbency of Mayor Maria Garcia, a tragic event occurred when a group of lawless elements had thrown a hand granade inside the police patrol jeep where then Lt. Eling Laderas was wounded and Patrolman Basilio Garceles was killed in San Isidro.
Another group emerged under the alleged leadership of Atoy Viri of San Miguel but its existence was cut short by his death at the hands of the soldiers led by Col. Manubay, Bulacan Provincial Commander in an encounter near the boundary of Hagonoy-Calumpit.
At present, Hagonoy is peceful as far as the report on crimes
committed is concerned. According to the figures furnished by Police Investigator
Mario Reyes of Hagonoy PNP, the number of reported cases decreased in comparison
to those of last year. Mostly the report included frustrated / attempted homicide,
petty crimes, quarrel, ,
illegal drugs,
|
Year No. of cases |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 (Marso) |
|
111 |
60 |
20 | |
|
Mo. Ave |
9.25 |
5 |
6.6 |
All reported cases in 2201 and 2002 were resolved but there were two unsolved cases from January top March 2003 involving illegal drugs where two were killed. In monthly average, it seemed that the number of cases reported increased for the first three months of this year 2003.
According to the police report, the most prevailing cases involve illegal drugs. Local government and Barangay Councils have joint efforts in campaigning against the use and pushing of illegal drugs. Notwithstanding provisions of the Republic Act No.. 9165, otherwise known as Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act of 2002 , its violation is rampant and it seems that violators are playing as cat and mouse tactics. This law provides:
“Section 15. Use of Dangerous Drugs. A person apprehended or arrested, who is found to be positive for use of any dangerous drug, after a confirmatory test. shall be imposed a penalty of six (6) months rehabilitation in a government center for the first offense. . . If apprehended using any dangerous drug for the second time, he/she shall suffer the penalty of imprisonment ranging from six (6) years and one day (1) to twelve (12) years and a fine ranging from Fifty thousand pesos (P50,000.00): Provided that this section shall not be applicable where the person tested is also found to have in his/her possession such quantity of any dangerous drug provided for under Section 11 of this Act., in which case the provisions stated therein shall apply..xxx"
Section 11 of the said law provides that death penalty and fines ranging
from Five Hundred Thousand Pesos (P 500,000.00) to Ten Million pesos (P10,000.000.00)
shall be imposed upon person, except permitted by the law, who are found to be
in possession of the following:
(1) 10 grams or more of opium
(2) 100 grams or more of morphine
(3) 10 grams or more of heroin
(4) 10 grams or more of cocaine or cocaine hydrochloride
(5) 50 grams or more methamphetamine hydrochloride or :shabu”
(6) 10 grams or more marijuana or marijuana resin oil
(7) 500 grams or more of marijuana; and
(8) 10 grams or more of other dangerous drugs
It is reported that the Barangay Councils play very vital roles in apprehending and reporting the illegal drug cases.
Before the Municipal Mayor appointed the Barrio Officials who were called "Tenyente del Barrio". The governed did not participate in the selection of Barrio Officials but the most respected persons in the localities were usually appointed. As the political atmosphere changed, the right to vote the Barrio Officials was recognized through the enactment of the Barrio Charter Law, otherwise known as Pelaez Law. In 1962 and 1964 under this law, the selection of the Barrio Officials was very simple. The qualified voters gathered at the public schools and nominated candidates for Barrio Captains and Members of the Barrio Council. After the nomination, they made the selection by raising hand methods. The counting of raised hands was usually done by the School Principal and those who obtained the highest votes for the positions were right away proclaimed.
That law was revised and in the 1968 election of the Barrio Officials, the candidates for the positions filed their certificate of candidacy to the Barrio Barrio Council Secretary but the election was under the supervision of the Office of the Municipal Mayors. This election became politically partisan. The two known political parties. the Liberal and the Nacionalista fielded their own sets of candidates. The election was through secret balloting and those who garnered the highest votes were proclaimed winners.
Because of political pressure and influence, the too much politics divided the electorates. Friends and relatives fought each others to win votes of the electorates for their candidates.. Gold began to be a major factor in the election.
Former President Ferdinand E. Marcos changed Nayon to Barangay. Historically, the word "barangay' was coined from the old word ":balangay", which means "boat" used by the first migrants from neighboring countries to the Philippines before even before the arrival of the Spaniards.
Again the election of Barangay Officials was subjected to a change during the administration of President Corazon Aquino. In this time, there were no positions staked but all candidates were considered equally. The candidates who garnered the highest number of votes among the candidates were proclaimed as Baranggay Captains and the remaining first six candidates as Members of the Council. The election did not become popular because a candidate who had many relatives will surely be elected. As it was noted that most electorates usually voted only for one candidate to be sure of his becoming the Barrio Captain.
Again the electoral system was changed with the passage of the Local Government Code of 1991 where election is also by secret balloting and the positions candidates are specifically provided. Those who wanted to be elected should file their certificates of candidacy at the Commission on Elections.
The date of Barangay election is now specified in the law and the canvassing of votes is done immediately after the closing of election hour, set at 3:00 in the afternoon. Those who will garner the highest number of votes for the positions are proclaimed winners.
It is observed that even in the lowest level of election, the force of gold plays very vital roles in the determining the results of the election. Qualification and competence are sometimes no longer considered but popularity and connection.
At present, Hagonoy has 26 Barangays, each is headed by a Barangay Captain. The Barangay Captains composed the Association of the Barangay Captains (ABC) and its Chairman is an ex-oficio member of the Municipal Sangguniang Bayan.
The following became the Chairmen of the Association of Baragnay Captains: Ramon Atienza, Pugad, Graciano Castro, Sto. Nino, Fortunato B. Perez, San Jose, Alfonso Santos, San Agustin, Miguel Santos, Tomas Sy Alvarado, Jr. Sto. Rasario and at presrnt Antonio Vengco, Sto. Nino.
On the other hand, the Kabataan (youth sector) from the ages 14 to 18 also elect their own officials for the Kabataang Barangay. They are elected in the same manner as of the Barangay Captain. The Chairman of the Federation of the Kabataang Barangay is also an ex-oficio member of the Municipal Sanguniang Bayan.
Before, the sources of annual income of the Nayon/Barangay Council originated from 10% share from the real property taxes. But under the Local Government Code of 1991, they are derived from 25% collection from real property tax, Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) according to the schemes approved by the Bureau of Internal Revenue and 47.5% share from the Community Tax Certificate (sedula); clearances, water rentals, permits, income from Barangay markets, Each Barangay is able to accumulate million pesos every year.
Before the World War, the Chief Executives were called Municipal Presidents. Now, they are called Municipal Mayor assisted by the members of the Municipal Council, the local legislative body. All of them are elected through secret balloting by qualified voters and serve the terms provided for by the law.
It is a memory of the past. In the election of 1902, Don Ambrocio Santos from Sto. Rosario, the first lawyer from Hagonoy, was elected member of the National Assembly. He was the first from Hagonoy to be elected in the National Assembly.
Immediately after the war, President Manuel Roxas appointed Mr.. Nazario Trillana from Mercado as acting Provincial Governor of Bulacan. During his incumbency, the Sto. Rosario Dike was constructed. This dike was repaired by Mayor Alvarado, who hails from Sto. Rosario. Being a close of friend of President Manuel Quezon, Mr. Trillana was able to request him for the construction of a concrete bridge connecting the Barrios of Sto. Rosario and San Nicolas.
Historically the election of those times were very peaceful and orderly. The candidates went from one barrio to another explaining their government programs once elected. There was a free and democratic discussion of the issues raised and the electorates could voice their free opinions and they could select candidates of their real choice without outside force of influence.
The election precincts were assigned in selected houses and in some public schools.
The Liberal and the Nacionalista were the prevailing recognized political parties under two political party system that vied for election.
In the 1948 election Atty. Dominador Catalig, Dr. Pedro Reyes and Mateo Santos vied for the position of Municipal Mayor. Atty. Catalig (LP) won and Mateo Santos died even before the election date, yet he obtained many votes. Being a soldier and war veteran, and war veteran, Mr. Santos was appointed acting Municipal Mayor before President Roxas appointed Atty. Catalig, as Municipal Mayor. In the 1952 mayoralty election, Atty. Jose Suntay (LP) and Dr. Santiago Panganiban (NP) vied. Atty. Suntay won. Mayor Suntay allowed Mr. Lorenzo Reyes of San Roque to act as Municipal Mayor for three months, when he took vacation. During this election, a group of young, dynamic energetic persons , Blas Ople, Rod Reyes, Max Tolentino , Pedro Pascual, Laureano Rivera, etc, ran for councilors but all were defeated due to political partisanship, In 1956 mayoralty election, Mayor Suntay ran against Andres Laderas (NP) and Mayor Suntay was re-elected.
When Mayor Suntay ran for Congress representing the First District of Bulacan, Vice Mayor Ramona S.Trillana (LP) succeeded and became Municipal Mayor.
In 1960 mayoralty election, Emilio Santos (LP), Emilio Perez (NP), Dr. Diosdado Carpio ng Hagunoy Citizen League for Good Government and Nena Marucot, Progressive Party of the Philippines vied for the position. Emilio Perez (NP) won. In 1964 election Emilio Perez (NP) and Emilio Santos ran against each others but Mayor Santos won. In subsequent election (1967) Councilor Alejandro Balatbat (LP), Emilio Perez (NP) and Benigno Villanueva (Ind) vied and Mayor Emilio Perez won, but he was not able to finish his term of office due to his death. Then Vice Mayor Maria Garcia Santos succeeded him. Came the 1971 election. Hermogenes Perez (NP), Rene Syquio (NP Ind) and Nick Sebastian, Jr. (LP) vied for the position but Hermogenes B. Perez won. In this election, only two candidates from Perez camp won as councilors, namely Dr. Narciso Lopez and the re-electionist Councilor Ato. Bautista; one from Syquio camp and four from the Sebastian camp. Among the re-electionist councilors, only Councilor Bautista was re-elected.
It is worthy to mention that in this election, all five candidates from San Sebastian won. It was extraordinary that the whole barangay supported them. They were Councilors. Ana Carasig, Nestor Tinio, Pedro Dionisio, Jose Santos, and Narciso Lopez.
Due to unavoidable circumstances and reasons, there were some incumbent councilors resigned from their positions from 1970 to 1977. Councilor Alipio Roque, a noted medical prationeer, entered in the military service and Max Macale replaced him. Councilor Pedro Dionisio, a bank employee, was prohibited by law to service as a councilor and a bank employee at the same time. Councilor Luis Caparas resigned because he ran for Vice Mayoralty race in 1971 and was replaced by Francisco Ablaza. Councilor Ato. Bautista resigned because of his transfer of service to the National Seaman Board, Ministry of Labor and Employment, 1977.
When Martial Law was declared in September 1972, the terms of office of all government elected officials were extended as "hold-over" until the succeeding election was held. In 1979 election Mayor Perez and Councilor Nestor Tinio vied but Mayor Perez was re-elected. It might the first in the history of election in Hagonoy that all candidates from one party all won.
When President Ferdinand E. Marcos was dethroned from power in 1986, President Corazon Aquino removed all elected officials and replaced them with her appointees. Wilhelmino M. Sy Alvarado was appointed as an Officer-in-Charge (OIC). In an election called immediately, OIC Alvarado ran against former Vice Governor Bernardo Ople. OIC Alvarado won. In 1992, former Mayor Perez and Mayor Alvarado ran for mayoral position and Mayor Alvarado was re-elected. In 1995, former Vice Mayor Eling Laderas and Mayor Alvarado vied for the position but again Mayor Alvarado was re-elected. Raul F. Ople ran and won as Provincial Board Member.
In 1998, Councilor Felix Ople and Marivic Alvarado, wife of Mayor Alvarado ran in the election for mayoralty post; while Mayor Alvarado ran for congressional post representing the First District of Bulacan against Atty. Danny Domingo of Malolos, now a City Mayor of Malolos. Mayor Alvarado won. In this election also, former Vice Mayor Eling Laderas was elected Board Member representing the First District of Bulacan in the Provincial Board of Bulacan.. In the same election, . Bokal Raul Ople ran for gubernatorial position against then Vice Governor Josie de la Cruz, who easily won. After three years, in 2001, Mayor Ople ran for re-election against Nani Sy Alvarado, the brother of Congressman Alvarado. Mayor Ople was re-elected. Whereas former Bokal Raul Ople was defeated by Congressman Alvarado in the congressional district.
Also in this election, Pat Laderas was elected to represent the First District of Bulacan in the Provincial Board of Bulacan.
It is very gloomy and sad to recall the tragic and unforgettable events that marked the dark pages of election in Hagonoy. In 1971 election, while the group of candidate Hermogenes B. Perez was conducting caucus meeting in San Nicolas, a group of armed men allegedly belonged to the opposite party appeared and indiscriminately fire their arms but not aiming to the candidates and their followers.
Few days before election, certain Antonio Bernardo, while lying inside his jeep, parked at San Sebastian, an unknown gunman fired at him and he died at once. Similar incident happened in Abulalas, when a man was killed and it was believed to an election related case. Both case remained unsolved up to this time.
It was observed that during "referenda" or elections held, the “dagdag-bawas” (addition & subtraction of votes) was allegedly rampant.
From 1968 the Members of the Municipal Council did not receive monthly compensation but per diem in the amount of P20.00 per session held. From 1974 to 1975, they were granted monthly salary in the amount of P150.00. It was the time when Pres. Marcos ran against Senator Sergio Osmena in presidential election. But from 1976, the monthly salary was replaced by per diem in the amount of P50.00 per session held.
Now, how fortunate are the public elective officials for they receive regularly monthly salaries and wages, representation allowances and Cost of Living Allowances (COLA) in the amount specified in the National Standardization Law according to the classification of local government units. The Municipal Councilors are now receiving salaries under Salary Grade No. 24. The local Chief Executives receive much higher as authorized by law.
Prior to the enactment of Local Government Code, the Chief Executives were the presiding officers of the Municipal Councils. Now, the Vice Mayors are the presiding officers of their respective Councils. At present, in Hagonoy, Vice Mayor Josefina R. Contreras presides over the meetings of the Sangguniang Bayan. Being the legislative body, the Sangguniang Bayan enacts all ordinances and resolutions to promote and enhance development of the town and its residents. It aims highly for the progress of the town and moves heaven and earth to solicit funds for public infrastructure programs. A review of the resolutions passed by the Sangguniang Bayan for the year 2002 was made. It was learned that the SB requested funds from the President Gloria M. Arroyo, TESDA, PSCO, Senator Legarda, Ople, Secretaries Alberto Romulo, Hernani Braganza, Leonardo Montemayor, Gob. Josie de la Cruz. It also approved Barangay budgets, recognized the 2002 Outstanding Classroom Public Teachers and Day Care Worker; suspended the grant of franchise to tricycle operators until February 28, 2004, created Municipal Council for Culture and Arts, condemned Congressman Willy Alvarado “bilang mali o lisyang asal para sa isang mataas na pinuno ng pamahalaan na nagdulot ng takot, pangamba at panganib sa buhay ng mga residente ng Barangay Sto. Rosario, Hagonoy, Bulakan, at nakaapekto sa kalagayang pangkapayapaan ng baya ng Hagonoy, at, mapitagan hilinging ng kapulugang ito sa COMMITTEE ON ETHICS ng Mababang Kapulungan ng Kongreso ng Pilipinas . . . . karampatang parusa ang sinumang nagkasala.” (Res. No. 2002-032, Hunyo 04, 2002)
The said case was dismissed by the Committee on Ethics at the Lower House of the Congress as early of February 2003 even before the death of Congressman Albano, the Committee Chairperson according to Mr. Cesar P. Rodriquez, Chief of Staff, Office of Rep. Willy Alvarado,
Also the SB approved resolutions approving the appointment of Dr. Hernani Pulumbarit as a Rural Health Officer; suspending the implementation of rate increase of market rentals per request of Hagonoy Market Vendors Association and recalling the appointment of Mr. Felino Ignacio as Market Master, creating Miniculture Park and Demo Farm; adopting Phil Health Insurance of the National Government to include the less fortunate residents of Hagonoy, creating Philhealth Capital fund; purchasing iodizing machine and 12 units cellular phones; opening of Targeted Rice Distributor Program; setting aside 1,000 sq meters at Sitio Buga, Sta.Elena for the construction of primary school, authorizing the Digitel operation; requesting the heirs of Suntay to donate the lot formerly occupied by the Hagonoy Rural Bank for Municipal Court and recognizing and appreciating Boy/Girl Officials; .
Many got surprised when they learned that the Alvarado administration was able to purchase 8,000 sq meters lot located at the back of Hagonoy Subdivision and adjacent to Hagonoy Elementary Shool for the purpose of construction of a municipal slaughter house but it seems that the place is being neglected as it is now occupied by squatters.
Under the Local Government Code the election of local officials takes place every three years.
For the first time in the town history that a son of Hagonoy was appointed acting Provincial Governor in the person of Nazario Trillana of Mercado. Tomas Martin was first elected as Provincial Board Member and then as Provincial Governor. He also became the Chairman of Board of Liquidators. Hagonoy has also two distinguished sons who served at the same time in the Philippine Congress, Congressman Willy Alvarado at the Lower House and Senator Blas Ople at the Upper House. Former Mayor Jose Suntay was elected Member of the Lower House representing the First District of Bulacan and later he became the Chairman of the Board of Liquidators. Congressman Teodulo Natividad was considered son of Hagonoy because his father was from Sta. Monica. Atty. Pablo Trillana III, was elected Delegate to the 1972 Constitutional Convention, became Undersecretary of DENR, Legal Adviser of Asia Development Bank and author of Loves of Rizal. Don Jose Bautista of Sgda Familia became Judge of the Court of Industrial Relation. Atty. Pascual Reyes, Executive Director DOLE Bureau of Labor Relations. Atty Benigno Vivar, NLRC Commissioner, Atty. Angel C. Cruz is prominent practicing lawyer with Law Office at Intramuros, Manila.
Exceedingly extraordinary are the services rendered by Blas F. Ople. He became the Secretary of the Department of Labor and Employment for a very long time, undefeated political leader in Central Luzon, who garnered the highest votes in the 1977 Region III regional election , Senate Pro-tempore and Senate President and now Secretary of Foreign Affairs.
For the first time in the history of Hagonoy, there were three of its distinguished sons who served at the same time in the Official Family, the Cabinet, of President Ferdinand E. Marcos. They were Sec. Manuel Syquio, Department of Public works, Transportation and Communication, Secretary Marcelo Balatbat, Department of Commerce and Industry, Secretary Blas F. Ople, Department of labor and Employment. Undersecretary Isosceles Pascual , Department of Agriculture) was considered son of Hagonoy because his wife, a resident of Halang and daughter of Apo Iyong Figueroa. They own the Pascual Laboratories. Dr. Ricardo Trinidad of Sta. Cruz, became Director, Department of Health, Region III, Judge Arturo Cruz, OWWA Administrator, Bernardo Ople, Vice Governor of Bulacan and Director ng National Manpower and Youth Council, now TESDA, Atty. Rafael Suntay, acting Prov. Vice Governor of Bulacan, Atty. Feliciano Torres, Assistant Provincial Fiscal of Bulacan , Atty. Dominador Catalig, Municipal Mayor and Commissioner of Agrarian Reform, Dr. Joaquin Sumpaico, Drirector, DOH , Alabang -Anti Rabies Laboratory, and Bishop Pedro Bantique, former secretary Rufino Kardinal Santos, Professor at San Carlos Minor Seminary and now Bishop of the Dioceses of Laguna.
Mr. Gavino Carpio became president of the Bulacan College of Arts and Trade, Dr. Diosdado Carpio, PRC Examiner (Dental), Gen.. Domingo A.Reyez, II, Director, PNP Region IV, Gen. Miguel Coronel, PNP Regional III Director, Head Anti-Drug Office and Head of Anti-Smuggling Office, and Gen Doroteo Reyes II, JAGO AFP
. Lawyers Catalino Laderas and Tita Tamayo, are now labor arbiters, National Labor Relations Commission, DOLE. Pat Laderas, is now serving as Member in the Provincial Board of Bulacan representing the First District.. Amado Caballero, Jr. of Sta. Monica was elected City Councilor of the City of Caloocan.
In scouting movement, well known were . Deogracias Flores and Sec. Manuel Syquio as members of the BSP Executive Board. In shipping industry, Capt. Monico Manlapig of Sta. Monica founded the Seahorse Shipping. Leonardo Caparas of San Sebastian is noted in the oil industry because he spent more twenty years on board rig platform and founded two shipping agencies accredited by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) that deploy oil/gas rig personnel and a training center to conduct basic course on rig safety. It is located at #98 A Road 1 corner Road 3, Project 6, Quezon City.
Gregorio Apostol pioneered the improvement of fishpond produce by employing chicken wastes as fertilizer. Apo Amado Hernandez who was elected councilor in the City of Manila was a novelist, writer and labor leader.
Special mention can be attributed to the service of Dr. Rufino C. Crisostomo, Sto. Rosario, as private medical practioneer. He was loved and remembered because of his understanding and care for the poor patients. He was very loving, understanding, industrious, civic-minded, God-fearing, helpful and accommodating as sometimes he did not charge professional fees but gave medicines to the needy. His greatness was already engraved in the hearts of all people because of his devotion and dedication to service the poor. His memory is still living in everybody's heart. Poor people really miss him very much.
Comm.Simeon Castro, Phil. Navy Flag Officer, Msgr. Juan Bautista, Tranquilino Cruz and Bartolome Bernabe became Military Chaplains.
Dr. Roque, Dr. Salvador at Dr. Concepcion served also in the Armed Forces of the Philippines in AFP Medical & Dental Services. Col. Sotero Morales served as Provincial Commander of Abra. Col. Antonio Lopez, Provincial Commander of Aurora and Catanduanes.
Inscribed in the golden pages of the history of Hagonoy is the public service of Mayor Hermogenes B. Perez, who served the longest term from 1972 to 1986. During this period, he exerted much efforts and spent almost of his precious times in rendering and extending assistance to his constituents. He tried to look for sufficient funds from the national government through the assistance of Congressman Teodulo Natividad, Secretary Blas f. Ople, Gov. Ignacio Santiago and other possible sources to make his projects realized. He gave farmers, laborers and fishermen special place in his heart so that whatever they needed were responded well to their satisfaction.
Worthy of mentioning among his pet projects, were his eagerness to recover the possession of the government-owned fishponds solely for increasing their yearly rentals, construction of roads and bridges, school buildings, public markets, extending assistance to all during typhoons and floods. He is well remembered too for transfer of Hagonoy Water Works to Local Water Utility Administration that authorized the existence of the Hagonoy Water District that is servicing the whole town.
His father, former Mayor Emilio G. Perez, was remembered for his well done projects to include the erection of a hospital, now named after him, Mayor Emilio g. Perez Memorial Hospital.
. Barrio/Barangay Captains who became members of the Municipal Council included the following: Tomas Sy Alvarado Sr., Sto. Rosario, Cresenciano “Ato” Bautista, Sto. Rosario, Toti Raymundo, Sta. Cruz, Pedro Santos, Mercado, Conrado Salamat, San Nicolas, Gabriel Morales, Sta. Monica, Graciano Castro, Sto. Nino, Jose Santos, San Sebastian, Ramon Atienza, Pugad at Pio Laderas, San Isidro.
WOMEN OF HAGONOY IN PUBLIC SERVICE
The women of Hagonoy played important task in the political public service. They spent the creams of their lives devoting themselves to the call of service to the poor of the poorest. They served in various capacities ranging from Municipal Councilors, Vice Mayors or Municipal Mayors..
These public servants included Ms. Valenta Dizon - Garcia, Councilor, wife of former Councilor Raymundo Garcia, San Nicolas, Ms. Raymunda Medina-Bernardo, Sta. Monica, Councilor, Dr. Salud del Rosario-Joaquin, San Isidro, Councilor, Ms. Ramona S. Trillana, Mercado, Councilor, Vice Mayor and Mayor, Dr. Maria Santos-Garcia, San Miguel, Vice Mayor, Mayor and Councilor, Ms.. Josefina Ramos-Contreras, San Agustin, Councilor and then Vice Mayor, Ms. Juliana Bernardo-Perez, appointed councilor after the death of her husband, Mayor Emilio G. Perez, and mother of Mayor Hermogenes B. Perez, Ms. Teresita Flores-Garcia, San Juan, daughter of former Councilor Deogracias Flores, Ms. Leonie Dimagiba-Ramos, San Agustin Barangay Captain, Sectoral representative and Councilor, wife of former Councilor, Dalmacio Ramos, Ms. Perla Balatbat, San Nicolas, adopted daughter of Councilor Alejandro Balatbat, Ms. Tersita Raymundo-Cruz, Sta. Cruz, daughter of former Councilor Victoriano Raymundo and sister of former Councilor Manuelito :Nonong" Raymundo, Ms. Flora Salamat, San Nicolas and Ms.. Athena Santos- Cruz, Sta. Monica, daughter of former Barangay Captain of San Agustin Santos, and ABC Chairman and elected three times as councilor.
The scouting movement is very active and responsive to the present life. The scouting activities are well arranged and carefully executed to prepare the youth to become useful and responsible citizens. The moral as well as civic obligations are molded in their minds so that they may become models of other young persons in becoming good citizens of the Republic.
The scouts and scouters hold regular campings, hiking, competitions for togetherness and familiarity in oneness of ideals and objectives.
Being a Municipal Chairman, Councilor Ato. Bautista organized Senior Scouts composing of out-of school youth. One of them was ordained Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Norman Reyes Sta.Elena.
In national scouting movement, Sec. Blas Ople and Sec. Manuel Syquio served in the National Executive Board, while Mr. Leonardo Balatbat, in the Administrstive Office.
In Bulacan Council, Deogracias Flores served as President and Councilor Ato Bautista, 4th Vice President, Chairperson, Committee of Awards, Municipal Chairperson, Hagonoy Scouting Committee.
To upgrade the scouting knowledge and skills, , the scout leaders do everything to make everybody involve, cooperate, join, support, participate and feel belongingness. Parents and other residents are open to give the necessary support for the movement.
In the progress of the scouting movement, the following who devoted their times were Tomas Sy Alvarado, Sr., former Chairman of the Municipal Scouting Committee, Councilor Ato. Bautista, former Chairman of the Municipal Scouting Committee, 4th Vice President, Executive Board of the BSP Bulacan Council, Assistant Head, Bulacan Delegation to the Central Luzon Regional Jamboree, Teresa, Rizal and Head, Bulacan Delagation at Central Luzon Mini Olympic, Mt. Arayat, Pampanga. Councilor. Flor Tallara, very active in the municipal scouting activities and became the Head of Hagonoy Delegation at Jamboree held in Palawan. Lucio Santos, Quirico Manalo, Dr.Andres Sy Reyes, Romeo de Pano, and Ernesto Lopez and other public schools teachers actively participated in the movement.
Usually the Chief Executives and Members of the Municipal Council give moral and financial supports to the movement.
To encourage and enhance for further skill development, Councilor Ato Bautista attended Commissioner Wood Badge Course at Los Banos, Laguna and the National Trainers' Course, BSP Region III. At present he is a holder of Two Beads. Arthur Higgins, Silvino Manila and other attended Scout Wood Badge Course, Mt. Makiling, Los Banos, Laguna.
It is the pride of Hagonoy to have scouters who were awarded the highest scouting awards. Deogracias Flores was warded Gold Usa, Ato. Bautista, Silver Usa, Jose Marcelino, Bronze Usa and Alfonso Tolentino Bronze Usa. Ang Usa Award is the one of the highest scouting awards accorded to individuals for exemplary performance and contribution to the movement by the BSP National Executive Board.
The Hagonoy Question Mark Club is composed of prominent residents of Hagonoy who are active in civic and public service. One of the monumental projects it undertook was the construction of Crisostomo Park. It was formerly a gloryeta constructed before the war during the incumbency Mayor Romualdo Crisostomo. When Luis Ople and Aurora Syquio, became the presidents and during the time of Mayor Emilio Perez, the park was constructed and developed. Now the local Tourism Office takes care of it.
The Samahang Matiwasay, founded by the group led by Atty. Pascual Reyes, Engr. Benedicto Yambao, Manuel Guevarra and others, assists and sponsors scholars in high school and college education and distributes gifts to less fortunate children from different Barangay every Christmas.
The Rotary Club is very active in giving assistance to the people of Hagonoy particularly during medical missions and calamity. It also extends educational assistance to the needy but deserving students.
The Lions International was introduced by the group led by Rene Syquio and Councilor Nestor Tinio, but it was short lived..
The Kalipunan ng mga Mananangol ng Hagunoy (KAMAHA) was founded by a group of lawyers to give legal assistance to the poor litigants. Among its members are lawyers Conrado Mangahas, Pascual Lacas, and others.
The Kapisahan ng mga Retiradong Taga Hagonoy (KAPREHA) was formed and founded by Atty. Dominador Catalig, Pablo Torres, Jose Salazar and other retirees to unite themselves in a close camaderie and fellowship.They spent their creams of their lives in rendering valuable services to the people. To the last drop of their happiness they still could manage to set aside ev3na little to the needy.
The Local Federation of War Veterans was formed by the war veterans and the living relatives of war veterans to look after their concerns of interest and to assist each others. Sec. Blas Ople, Sec. Manuel Syquio, Eliseo Vengco, Max Macale, Leonardo Balatbat, Jose Marcelino, Peding Pascual, and other veterans are prominent. At present Pedro Pascual is the President.
The Hagonoy Family Planning Council was organized by Mayor Hermogenes Perez to promote responsible parenthood and the ideas of family planning. The officers were Ms. Marta Zuniga, President, Councilor. Ato. Bautista, Vice President, and Dr. Juan Santos, Gng. Eurofrocina Guevarra, Vice Mayor Andres Laderas, advisers and consultants. They held weekly visits to all Barangay for information dissemination and free consultation. Mayor Perez and Barangay Captains gave their full support to this undertakings.
The Association of Senior Citizens was organized in all Barangays and a Municipal Association of Senior Citizens was formed to make the remaining portion of their lives be useful and contributive to the interest of the association and of the individual members. The government always supports this association under the leadership of then President Manuel Guevarra but now under the stewardship of former Councilor Pacifico Lopez..
The BANGKILAS became well known during the time of Mayor Alvarado. It was an association of fishermen so formed and organized to protect themselves from the abuses of the rich fishpond owners who did injustice to them.. It was reported that some of their members became extortionists, abusive and violated human rights until the public support faded away as shooting stars in space.
The KAHIT DUKHA AY DAKILA of Mercado was organized with the assistance Gen. Jose de los Reyes. It was composed of small fisherman using DALA, fishing gear made of rounded net with alloy at the end, for catching fish and other marine life in the river. This "dala" was thrown by the fisherman while standing at his boat and little a while he collected and placed in the boat for whatever catch. At present, only the living relatives of the old continue using it. However, because of water pollution, "dala' becomes ineffective. The spirit of these fishermen is still felt nowadays in Mercado.
At the beginning, ordinary boats made from log were used by early inhabitants in their callings. The logs illegally cut and mostly from the mountain of Batman were fabricated and curved by boat carpenters .Mr. Felix Ople of San Miguel, the father of Secretary Blas f. Ople and grandfather of Mayor Felix Ople and Belto Manucm of Sto. Rosario were well known boat carpenters and carvers.
Paraw was used in transporting goods from Hagonoy to neighboring places ands vice versa. Paraw was a type of bigger boat/banca and run by using oars or long paddles pulled in and out by the boatmen. The direction of this paraw in operation was guided by tiller maneuvered by a boatman.
Bigger than Paraw was Kasko. It was used also for transporting large volume of goods. The Kasko crew used "tikin", long pieces of thin bamboos. They pointed them under the water reaching the waterbed and then they walked from the front to the back until they reached their destination. After the liberation, people of Hagonoy used motor boats introduced by the Americans. Most fishermen used motor boats in going to the sea and/or fishponds. Now different motorized banca, small or big, are utilized by fishermen.
For land transports, carts "kalesa" and karetela" pulled by horses were common then. "Kreta" type of carts pulled by carabao were used by the farmers from fields to markets. As time progressed, passenger jeeps, buses, tricycles and Asian Utility Vehicles are in use today.
Even before the war, nipa vendors , particularly from San Nicolas, used trucks in transporting nipa in different part of Luzon. Some used "kasko" when the places of destination was not accessible to land transportation.
Hagonoy is about 53 kilometers from Manila. The only means of public transports to reach that place was by riding in passenger buses. Pambusco (Pampanga Bus Company) monopolized the Hagonoy-Manila line. Then this bus company was merged with La Mallorca, known as Pambusco-La Mallorca. It served the people of Hagonoy for a longer time. In 1950s, the Ablaza family of San Nicolas put up units of buses, named ABTRANCO (Ablaza Transportation Compnay) to service the people. But this company did not last long because of lack of people's support. It was said the Pambusaco-La Mallorca offered much lower fares which caused the downfall of ABTRANCO.
Came the end of the glorious days of the Pambusco-La Mallarca. Its service became poorer and not responsive in 1972. The Pantranco, (Pangasinan Transportation Company) through its President, Mr. Avelino Mangahas of San Jose and Mercado, served the Hagonoy-Manila lines under temporary permit from the Public Service Commission. In the same manner, the BALIWAG Transit, Inc.. entered the same line and under the Provisional Permit issued by the Public Service Commission.
The management of BALIWAG Transit, Inc.. filed petition at the Philippine Service Commission for permanent permit to service the Hagonoy-Manila lines. In the preliminary hearing at the Commission, only Councilor Ato. Bautista, supported by the group of Mr. Jose Salazar, stood as a lone witness in favor of this company. The Commission granted it permanent permit and until now it is serving the line.
The monopoly of Baliwag Transit, Inc.. ended when the Royal Eagle, another bus company, entered the line. Most of its buses are air-conditioned. Competition is better for good service. Royal Eagles ply from Hagonoy to Pasay; while Baliwag Transit, Inc., Hagonoy-Divisoria, Hagonoy-Cubao and Hagonoy-Ayala, vice versa.
Before the war broke out, the whole town was lighted by MERALCO. It was interrupted during the war. After the liberation, a group led by Pepe Medina and Simeon Rodriquez of Sto.Rosario operated big generator to supply electricity in Sto. Rosario and its adjacent barrios. But it was short-lived. For many years, the whole was under darkness during night times. Some used kerosene / oil lamps or candles
In 1970s existed the Hagonoy Electric Company, owned by Pablo Halili of Sta. Maria and Robles of Hagonoy. The after some years, with the enactment of electric cooperative law by Congress, the First Bulacan Electric Cooperative was formed and organized by electric consumers. Atty. Pascual Reyes, representing Hagonoy, became its first president until such time in 1980s when MERALCO took over.
With the assistance of then Minister Blas F.Ople, President Marcos ordered the extension of MERALCO services up to Pugad and Tibaguin, coastal barrio bounded by Manila Bay. President Marcos himself inaugurated the historic installation of electric services to those barrios, which is one hour ride by motor boat from the town proper.
"Sipa" was very popular sport. "Sipa" was played by tow protagonist using a small ball made of rattan. One of the protagonist kicked the ball toward the side of the other protagonist who did the same. Whoever missed the kicking, lost the score. Valentin Santos of Mercado and Along Santos Sto. Rosario played well this "sipa".
While the young generation, male and female, played volleyball. This play was very popular because almost every barrio had its own volleyball team ready to compete any time with other teams from different barrios. In all barrio festivals, volleyball was always played by invited players. Sta. Cruz, San Pascual, Sto. Rosario, San Jose and Sapangkawayan maintained good volleyball players. In school athletic competition volleyball was of the main events.
Softball was also played especially during May festivals in the barrios. Players were invited from different towns to play it.
Basketball is the most popular game of the generation. Until now, many teams are formed for inter- Barangay competitions. In all school athletic meets, basketball is one of the events vied for honor by each school.
In the early 1950s, the Lopez Knight managed by former Councilor Jose Lopez of Sgda Familia, Suntay Cavaliers, Choy Suntay, San Agustin Bombers of San Agustin , led by Thelmo Santos, Jose Rizal College player at the NCAA, Sta. Monica, Sto. Nino and Sto. Rosario were the leading teams..
Whenever private schools were involved in any basketball competition, St. Anne's Academy under Mr.Eliseo Vengco and Hagonoy Institute under Ricardo Tuzaon, aka Fighting Carding, were the main protagonists in the court.
At present, only basketball remains to be played and famous due to the influence of American Basketball League and the local counterparts..
Art de la Cruz from San Pedro, the most famous basketball player because he is a member of San Miguel Tem in the Philippine Basketball Association. In boxing, Jackie Trillana from Sto. Rosario tried his best in the rings but did not succeed.
Once tennis became popular sport in the town during the times Mayor Perez and Mayor Alvarado but it was converted into a Parking Area by Mayor Ople.
Dr. Federico Sunday pioneered the banking system in town when founded the Hagonoy Rural Bank which was the managed by Dr. Andres Sy Reyes General Manager. After its long existence, its name was changed to East Coast Rural Bank of Hagonoy. Once this bank was robbed in the broad daytime but Dr. Federico Suntay immediately responded by putting additional funds so that its depositors would not panic.
The People Mutual Bank was opened but short-lived. The Republic Bank of the Roman was opened but recently it was sold to the owners of Maybank. The Town Saving, owned by Joey Santos of Pulilan was opened but was sold to WinBank. The Paluwagan ng Bayan of Atty. Lourdes Lontok-Cruz, the Rural Bank of San Miguel and the Rural Bank of Guiguinto closed their operation.
At present, Planters Development Bank, Metro Bank, East Coast Rural Bank of Hagonoy, Equitable Bank, WinBank and MayBank are open and continuously serving the people.
Mr. Cyprian Villanueva of San Pascual pioneered the setting up of cooperatives in San Pascual and in Sto.Rosarion but did not last longer for one reason or another. Mr. Geronimo Victoria, then Distrcit Supervisor of public schools, formed and organized a cooperative to be composed of teachers but again it did not succeed.
After the law on the operation of cooperatives was enacted, cooperatives in all Barangays sprouted to serve their members. They are of great assistance to the members for all purposes. Sta. Ana, San Sebastian, Sto. Rosario, Mercado, Sta.Elena and others have already organized their cooperatives that are serving well the members. The government assists them in all aspects.
Hagonoy is bounded by Manila Bay. Many fishermen using big or small fishing boats pass by this place particularly Pugad and Tibaguin. Other fishermen pass through the rivers of Mayhagunoy, Lagyo, Makakangkong, Manuhol, Mabaong Munti and Mabaong Malaki , Gumitna and Sapangkawayan or Pasak going to the sea. In time of unfair or bad weather, the lighthouse in Pugad serves the guiding beacon of the fishermen to safer places in the area. There is a regular municipal employee who is in charge of the lighthouse.
Before there was another lighthouse erected at the Wawa MayHagunoy but was neglected by the past local administrations. It is no longer functional and usable.
Mayors Alvarado and Ople organized the Bantay Dagat to ensure the protection of the sea from pirates, illegal fishing and other illegal activities. It also ensure to protect marine environment It was reported few months ago, it apprehended illegal log cut from the mountain of Bataan to be made fishing boat. Mayor Ople was appreciated for this projects by the concerned national government agency.
Republic Act No. 9003, The Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, provides for the proper waste disposals in the country. The local government under the administrations of Mayor Alvarado and Mayor Ople in close cooperation with the residents successfully and satisfactorily implement the said law within the municipality. The residents keep and segregate their garbage and make them ready for pick up by the dump trucks that regularly collect them on designated times.
The main objective of the law is to ensure the protection of the environment and public health. Despite the efforts of the local government, still many are uncooperative who just throw their garbage anywhere and even in the rivers. To add to injury, they throw garbage wrapped with plastic containers. Plastics are not easily melted in water/it covers the waterbed, thus causing the loss of oxygen for the marine life to die. According to studies, plastics melt only after 150 years. It is said to be one of the reasons of siltation of the rivers.
For this purpose, the Municipal Government shall organize the Municipal Waste Management Board, composed of the Chief Executive, representative of the Sangguniang Bayan as chairperson, Chairman of ABC, Chairperson of Kabataang Barangay, one NGO representative, one representative from cycling industry, one representative from manufacturing or packaging industry, and one representative from each concerned government agencies.
The Municipality of Hagonoy has dump trucks and a dumping site at Abulalas.
Ms.Salud Carlos was of the instrumental partners in establishing the Municipal Library after the liberation. She was the wife of former Hagonoy Municipal Treasurer, Pedro Carlos. The library had many volume of books ready for all borrowers. The National Library through Bulacan Provincial Library supplied books to the Municipal Library. All Municipal Mayors extended their assistance to maintain the library. They assigned Municipal Librarians. Fe Atienza, Honorata Mendoza and Concepcion Bauitista were the past librarians. Ms. Bautista improved the facilities of the library with new chairs, tables and counters. He was able to obtain books from the Office of the First Lady, Ms. Imelda Marcos and from the Asia Foundation.
The present Municipal Librarian is Ms. Teresa Matias, a former Provincial Library employee during the time of Ms.. Jessie Bernabe Capulong, the Provincial Librarian. According to her, the daily average users of the library is approximately 30 persons. There are about 2,000 volumes of books yet many are already obsolete. And there is no regular supply of daily newspapers as the there is no appropriation for that purpose by the Sangguniang Bayan.
Before the war Hagonoy had the cemetery, owned and operated by the Parish of Sta.Ana and one operated by the local government at Peralta, where the remains were rested. During the Japanese occupation, a small lot at San Jose was temporarily used as resting place especially for those war refuges from Bataan.
Because of the distance of barrios from the town proper and continuously growing population, many barrio leaders deemed it was wise and practical to have their own cemeteries. Sta. Elena, Sto. Rosario, Iba and San Juan have their own..
In addition, the Raymundo Memorial Park adjacent to the church of Sta. Ana, one owned by Atty. Popoy Reyes, adjacent to the Sto. Rosario Cemetery, the Himalayan San Juan, owned by Atty. Angel Cruz and one at Iba, owned by the Faustino Family are most modern.
In a democratic country like ours, the people are already conscious and informed of the issues affecting their daily lives. They are now educated and knowledgeable to express their opinions particularly for public issues. They are now free to discuss openly all issues. Their mouths are open. The hands are no longer tied. Their eyes and ears are now open to see and hear what is happening.
During the administration of Mayor Garcia Santos, the residents of Hagonoy demonstrated their unity when they gathered at the churchyard of Sta. Ana Church to oppose the electric rate increase by Hagonoy Electric Company. This demonstration was led by Amado tolentino of Sta. Elena, who eloquently spoke against the issue.
The market vendors supported by many civic-minded residents also demonstrated their opposition to the proposed swapping of Gabaldon Building to new structure or building to be constructed in front of the municipal building. They strongly opposed to the move of the administration. They succeeded and the plan was not carried out. The Gabaldon Building, being used as school house, was considered historical in the sense that this kind of building should be used only for school from the Gabaldon Act, authored by Assemblyman Galbaldon from Nueva Ecija.
It was proposed to be a super market. Vox populi, vox Dei, was the slogan that spearheaded the act of demonstrating against the administration. In this time the "TINIG", a newsletter published by Councilor Ato Bautiusta, released news attacking the administration for such gigantic but unacceptable project. This "TINIG" served the voice of the minority against the tyrannical majority during his first term as a Municipal Councilor.
Came new stage of development. The demolition of Gabaldon Building was a must because it did not serve its purpose any longer. It was no longer conducive for learning to stay in the place because of many obstructions, like the passenger jeeps and tricycle and beside the street was being used as a portion of public market. It posed danger to the safety and health of the pupils and teachers. So Mayor Alvarado decided to have demolished and transferred the classrooms at Mary the Queen Subdivision, San Sebastian, where everybody is safe and well protected.
The demolition made by Mayor Alvarado was justified on the ground that the government would place the building with a public market; while during the Garcia-Santos administration, a private person would be the one to construct a supermarket to be owned and operated by his family. There was a great difference.
During the Perez administration, there were also demonstrations held to protest the alleged irregularities in the government. The demonstrators even carried black coffin to symbolize their strong protests and sentiment.
When Councilor. Ato Bautista authored and introduced the revision of municipal tax ordinance increasing practically all rentals in the market, as the previous taxes being implemented were passed in 1948. He saw it reasonable that after many years the municipal taxation should be updated in accordance with the newly issued Public hearings were conducted in the public markets where the Market Vendors Association was well represented and accorded enough time to participate in the drafting of a new tax code.After deliberation at the Municipal Council, the same was approved without objection and later signed by the Municipal Mayor. In the first Friday of July 1972, the Market Vendors Association led by Branders See Reyes, held mass demonstration in in front of the municipal building attacking and protesting the implementation of the newly approved Municipal Tax Code. The government sides were explained well until they understood the rationale of the issues.
In 1995, the followers and leaders of the Vice Mayor Laderas also staged mass demonstration to protest the alleged election irregularities and cheating against the re-election of Mayor Alvarado.
The youth and the residents are now active and deeply concerned to express their griencs through a peaceful means and manner toward reforms.
In the past years, Hagonoy was considered the basin of Central Luzon. So called as such because whenever the rains continuously poured for many days, surely the whole town of Hagonoy would be flooded. Sometimes the flood lasted for one month. Flood devasted fields and fishponds. The economy and public health of the entire town were greatly affected. Government agencies distributed goods and foods to some flood victims. Medical assistance was always available to ensure the protection of the general public from sickness brought by the flood water.
When the Labangan Channel, a long channel from Pampanga to Hagonoy, was dredged, flood was lessen. Flood usually lasted for one or two days.
When the Labangan Channel was dredged, it passed through the school lot where the San Pedro Elementary School was situated. It was transferred to the adjacent place, owned the Cojuanco family.
The market to farm road shortens the traveling hours from all directions to Sta. Elena passing through the San Pablo road. At present, there is a new diversion road under construction from Balot, San Agustin to town proper passing at the back of the Hagonoy Elmentary School, thus shortening the travel hours and avoiding the heavy traffic at Sto. Nino. This is informatively financed from the Community Development Fund of then Senator Blas F. Ople.
The town proper is purely commercial area where the following establishments are visible:Hagonoy Malls, owned by the Cruz family of San Juan, the newly constructed school building ofi ng St.Mary Academy in front of the Crisotomo Park, the Jollibee, the Mercury Drug, the Save More Drug Store, Drug Stores of Dr. Roquez, Dr. Lopez, Dra. Tempongpo and their medical clinics.i Dr. Nazarino has also medical clinic and Dr. Danao, Veterinary clinic. Of course the public market and other supermarkets are situated there.
The Sta. Ana Parish Church, a National Shrine, is in the heart of the town. Many pilgrims and visitors visit this Shrine. The terminals of Baliwag Transit, Inc. and Royal Eagle. The Emilio G. Perez District Hospital, Aldaba Health Center and Physical Therapy at Rehabilitation Centers, the Offices of Police Force, Postal Service, Hagonoy Water District, Postal Office, and the Municipal Buildin are within the poblacion area.
The holding of "job fairs" in the municipality is regularly held especially during the birthday celebrationof the Oples affords the public of opportunities for foreign employment with the assistance of the Department of Labor and Employment.
One of the points of interest is the financial stability of the municipality. The annual budget is big enough to support the projects of the government and to maintain a pool of employees to render effective service to the people.
Under the law the municipal budget is prepared by the Chief Executive from the estimates prepared by the Office of the Treasurer. He submits the proposed budget to the Sangguniang Bayan before or on 16 of October of the current year for SB deliberation and approval. But to our surprise as of April 22, 2003, the Chief Executive has not submitted yet the budget. Normally, if there is no new budget approved by the SB, the budget of the preceeding year would be operational with certain limitation that only 45% of it will be used to personal services only.
Under the Local Government Code of 1991, Section 318 provides that in the failure of the chief executive to submit the porposed budget on or before 16 of October, he shall be liable for criminal and administrative cases.
For the previous years, the Municipal Budgets were as follows:
|
Year |
Income |
Expenditure |
|
2001 |
P 65,345,071.78 |
P 65,754,330.64 |
|
2000 |
P 66,370,424.92 |
P 67,339,502.89 |
|
1999 |
P 53,283,459.79 |
P 55,891,543.19 |
From very reliable sosurces, there are 170 casuals, 70 contractuals, about 70 regular employees employed in the Municipality of Hagonoy.
From the beginning the municipal funds of the municipality are being efficiently handled by the Municipal Treasures who are men and woman of integrity and trust. It is admirable and commendable for them to safeguard the people's money.
Hagonoy, my beloved town, is progressing to see the new dawn of tomorrow, full of hope and sucsess toward unity, justice and brotherhood among our God-fearing people. The shinning of new stars will guide anew the prosperity of the town for abundant and highly industrialized town of which everyone will be proud. Development and improvement to its fullness will come to HAGONOY, ANG BAYAN KO.
"AD DEUM CUM GLORIA"