A big salute to the successful holding of Historyahan 2026 at Munting Ilog Integrated National High School! Initiatives like this are vital for planting the seeds of local history and pride in the hearts of young Silangueños. The event, held on August 12, 2026, brought the legacy of one of Cavite's most significant revolutionary figures directly into the classroom.
The Story of General Vito Belarmino: A Son of Silang
The core theme of Historyahan 2026 focused on the life and heroism of General Vito Belarmino, a prominent general from Silang, Cavite, who played crucial roles in the Philippine Revolution against Spain and the Philippine-American War . Born on June 15, 1857, Belarmino served his community in various local positions before joining the Katipunan on July 22, 1896, where he took the nom de guerre "Walang Gulat" .
He fought in key battles, led the attack on the convent and garrison in Silang, and joined Aguinaldo in assaults in Talisay, Batangas . His leadership was recognized by President Emilio Aguinaldo, who appointed him commandant of the province of Albay and later military chief of the neighboring provinces of Camarines and Sorsogon . He was also a signatory to the Constitution of Biak-na-Bato in 1897 and represented Batanes at the Malolos Congress in 1898.
A Book That Brings History to Life
This specific chapter on Belarmino's legacy was authored by local historian Bernard Salazar and is featured in the comprehensive book titled Heneral Vito Belarmino, Ang Dakilang Anak ng Bayan . The book, published by Herencia de Silan Publications, was written mainly by scholars and educators from Silang and received support from the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, Museo ni Emilio Aguinaldo, the Cavite Studies Center, and the Silang Historical Society.
Beyond presenting Belarmino's biography, the book examines his military exploits, particularly his significant assignment in the Bicol Region, and features material evidence and documentary sources related to his heroism . Other chapters discuss Silang before the 1896 Revolution and the town's defense in 1897, demonstrating how collective scholarship can recover overlooked histories.
A Collaborative Effort for Youth Education
The success of Historyahan 2026 was made possible through the joint efforts of key community stakeholders. Munting Ilog Integrated National High School served as the host venue and educational hub for the participating students. The Silang Tourism Office, under Mayor Gen. Ted Carranza, consistently preserves and promotes the town's cultural heritage . The Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Federation, led by SKF President Neil Buso, played a vital role in bridging the youth to active historical and civic awareness.
As part of the initiative, physical copies and digital ebooks were distributed to students, ensuring that historical knowledge remains accessible for long-term learning and research. Initiatives like Historyahan 2026 demonstrate how bringing local history directly to classrooms is the most effective way to keep the spirit of patriotism alive in the next generation of Silangueños and Filipinos.
