An archive from the National Library specified that back in 1747, the Spaniards officially founded Binan as a pueblo or town. After 275 years, Biñan has continued to cultivate its rich history while gearing up for economic gains in the decades to come.
In celebration of 275 glorious years since formally becoming a town, the local government unit aims to commemorate the valuable contributions of each and every Biñanense in building a place where history, excellence, and progress merge.
Dubbed Araw ng Biñan 2022, City officials led by Mayor Arman Dimaguila, Vice Mayor Gel Alonte, and Deputy Speaker Len Alonte-Naguiat, want their people to “be proud of who they are. We want people to know, understand our culture– the soul of any city.”
With the efforts of the city government of Biñan and its BCHATO, Biñan hopes for the people to remember its rich history and culture amid the growing advancement in society.
This year’s Araw ng Biñan focuses on histo-cultural festivities. From February 2-4 Biñanenses are in for a wonderful series of activities that kicks off with its Cityhood Anniversary celebrations.
Back on February 2, 2010, Biñan was granted its cityhood by virtue of Republic Act 9470. This year’s activity for its 12th Cityhood Anniversary was aligned with the last year’s celebration of Rizal in Biñan 150, as it is a popular fact that Jose Rizal studied in Biñan and echoes the same theme of Rizal’s life and bravery implying “para sa bayan.”
“Kagaya ng ipinamalas ni Dr. Jose Rizal noong kapanahunan niya, ayun din ang ginawa ng ating magigiting na mga veterans noong panahon ng giyera—ang ipaglaban ang ating kalayaan. Ipinagdiriwang natin at inaalay ang selebrasyong ito sa mga nagsakripisyo para sa kung ano ang tinatamasa natin ngayon bilang lungsod,” said Mayor Arman Dimaguila.
On February 3, the city will remember the valiant deeds of its veterans as this day is dedicated to commemorating their freedom from Japanese forces. Although the city’s last living World War II veteran passed away last year, the city still upholds its promise to support the families of its war heroes.
This coincides with the city’s 77th Liberation Day, also a non-working holiday. A heroes tribute at the Heroes Memorial will be offered to recognize their veteran Biñanense who fought against the Japanese. “Let’s not forget yung mga heroes natin. Yung mga veterans. We still honor the family. Kasi syempre sila pa rin yung legacy ng mga local heroes natin,” said Congresswoman Len Alonte.
This February 4, 2022, the celebrations will focus on their 275th Foundation Anniversary as an established independent town by the Spaniards nearly 300 years ago. From then on, Biñan City has always valued the importance of its cultural identity even in a modernizing world.
Event frontrunner and Biñan City Culture, History, Arts and Tourism Office (BCHATO) Head Dr. Bryan Jayson Borja summed it up eloquently.
“Kapag inalam natin kung ano ang kasaysayan, sining natin, ‘yung kultura natin, it makes us remember. Kase matututo ka sa kasaysayan kung ano ang gagawin mo sa kasulukuyan at ano ang gagawin ninyong plano papunta sa hinaharap,” Borja said.
