The Capitol of Negros Oriental stands as a silent witness to
the political-cultural and socio-economic structures that have shaped the
province. When the original capitol, previously located near the shore, burned
down in 1922, the provincial government center of Negros Oriental was relocated
to its current site. From October of the following year until 1924, the new
Capitol was constructed in the Neo-classical style under the supervision of
Architects Tomas Mapua and Antonio Toledo of the Bureau of Public Works. Led by
Governor Enrique Teves. Villanueva, the inauguration of the Capitol on February 25,
1925, was celebrated with a grand parade, band, and various programs. Just
three months later, a strong earthquake shook the southeastern part of the
province. Fortunately, the building was not destroyed.
In November 1938, President Manuel Quezon visited to better
acquaint himself with the Negrenses. After delivering a speech at what is now
Quezon Park, he expressed his desire for honest and clean elections in this
historic building.
During the outbreak of World War II, the Capitol was among
the headquarters occupied by the Japanese. Fortunately, it survived the war's
destruction. It was renovated under the administration of Gov. Lorezo G.Teves and later Governor George Arnaiz. Over the
course of a century, the Capitol has retained its stability and beauty,
symbolizing the complex yet colorful history of the province.
Today, May 17, 2024, the historical marker from the National
Historical Commission of the Philippines will be unveiled for the Capitol of
Negros Oriental in the City of Dumaguete, led by Executive Director Carminda R.
Arevalo, Governor Manuel “Chaco” Saggarbaria, and the entire Provincial
Government of Negros Oriental.
Photos from : National Historical Commission of the Philippines and Negros Oriental Tourism Board
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