The 76th Commemoration of the Victory of the Battle of Bacsil Ridge was celebrated as part of the activities of the 23rd Cityhood Foundation Anniversary. The heroism of our veteran forefathers Gregorio “Bunog” Hufano and his brother Juan “Baliodong” Hufano that led to the freedom we enjoy today was once again remembered.

The program started with a flag ceremony, wreath-laying and lighting of torch at the Bacsil Ridge marker followed by a thanksgiving mass presided by Father Bobby Collado.  Warm greeting was also imparted by Al Ryan S. Alejandre, Executive Director, National Commission for Culture and the Arts. Performers from Amplified Gen-X & DMMMSU Uddang Cultural Group rendered an intermission number during the program.

Meanwhile, Acting City Mayor Alfred Ortega in his uplifting welcome remarks, said, “I encourage everybody to embrace the same kind of spirit that fueled our forefathers and our heroes for us to overcome the battle we are still fighting now against an enemy that we cannot see. We have to draw strength and inspiration to the history that transpired from our forefathers and from our heroes in continuing to fight and continuing to show our love for our beloved city. Ti kararag ko Apo agnanayun nga Ayat para pamilya ti San Fernando.”

Former City Mayor Mary Jane Ortega, Guest of Honor and Speaker, relived how our local heroes won the Battle of Bacsil Ridge in a short video presentation and reminded everyone not to forget the sacrifices of our heroes that defended our freedom. “Sapay kuma nga dagijay natay dituy dagidiay nauram dituy dagidiay pinuuran da Pilipino, Ilocano wenno Hapon man, may they rest in peace so that we can have peace in our land,” she said in her closing statement. Baliodong’s daughter Julita Victoria Hufano-Peralta and his granddaughter Sheila were also invited as special guests.

Acting City Vice Mayor Chary Nisce, City Cuncilors John Orros, Luzan Valero, Monetski Ortega, and Rizalde Laudencia, Sangguniang Kabataan Federation President Macky Ducusin, and Mr. Justito Orros, representing Governor Pacoy Ortega, also graced the event. City Department Heads, Representatives from Regional and Provincial PNP, City COMELEC Office, BJMP, BFP, City Schools Division Office and Barangay Officials were also present at the celebration held last March 19, 2021 in Barangay Bacsil.

The program was made possible by the General Services Office which served as the event coordinator.

The commemoration of the Battle of Bacsil Ridge entails our bravery, unity and victory. Our history made us who we are as a City – fighting together with one cause. May we all be reminded of our ancestral forefathers and heroes, and may their passion and courage dwell in our hearts so we may stand together strong for our City, for #SanFernandoAyAyatenKa.