The legacy of the late Negros Occidental governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. was highlighted as Sagay City celebrated its 30th Charter Day on Thursday, June 11, with the launching of a book on his life.
The book, The Life and Times of Alfredo G. Marañon Jr., written by Modesto Sa-onoy, was formally launched during the 30th Charter Day program at the Sagay City Gymnasium as part of the city’s Pearl Cityhood Anniversary celebration.
The launching served as one of the highlights of the program, paying tribute to Marañon’s life, public service, and role in helping advance Sagay’s cityhood.
Marañon was instrumental in the conversion of Sagay from a municipality into a component city, a milestone that continues to shape the city’s growth, services, and direction 30 years later, a press release from Sagay City said.
Dr. Marilyn D. Marañon, wife of the late governor, said the book launching was made more meaningful because it was held during Sagay City’s 30th Charter Day celebration, recalling the role of her husband in the cityhood journey of Sagay.
She said Marañon, then congressman, was the principal author of House Bill 1402, which sought the conversion of the Municipality of Sagay into a component city of Negros Occidental, and that the bill eventually became Republic Act 8192 after it was signed into law by then President Fidel V. Ramos on June 11, 1996.
“Cong. Freddie made the blueprint, road map, and paved the way to the next generation to do what the city can become,” she said, adding that her family is grateful for the honor given to the late governor through the book and the continued remembrance of his legacy.
The celebration also featured the presentation of a resolution from the Bacolod City government, represented by Councilor Homer Bais, renaming North Capitol Road as Gov. Alfredo Marañon Jr. Avenue.
The resolution was presented as a gesture of recognition for Marañon’s contribution to public service in Negros Occidental, including his leadership and long-standing service to the province and the people of Sagay.
Mayor Leo Rafael “Bebo” Cueva said the 30th Charter Day celebration is a reminder that the work of building Sagay continues.
“I believe that progress must be felt in the daily lives of our people in safer communities, better services, stronger schools, improved roads, wider opportunities, and a government that listens, responds, and serves with sincerity,” Cueva said.
He added that Sagay must continue building a city where progress is seen in the city center and felt in every barangay.
“Our spirit of togetherness has always contributed to the growth of our city,” Vice Mayor Narciso L. Javelosa Jr. said, as he welcomed Sagaynons and guests to the 30th Charter Day celebration.
Board Member Arthur Christopher Marañon, who spoke on behalf of Rep. Alfredo Marañon III, said Sagay’s 30 years as a city is proof of what can happen when a community believes in itself.
He also said that the district will continue working with the city government, barangay leaders, and the people of Sagay to bring programs and projects that answer real needs and help build a stronger future.
The program also included the Thanksgiving Mass, wreath-laying at the Charter Marker, a video tribute, cultural performances, recognition of the city’s top taxpayers, and the community singing of “Padayon Sagaynon.”*
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