This week’s milestones: April 20 to April 26 (2025)

April 23, 1899

The Battle of Quingua—now Plaridel—in Bulacan was one of the significant battles during the Philippine-American War. Filipino revolutionaries, led by Col. Pablo Tecson and Gen. Gregorio del Pilar, encountered the US cavalry forces under Maj. J. Franklin Bell. The Filipinos gained the upper hand in the early phase, forcing Bell and his men to retreat. A bloody battle followed, but the tide turned with the arrival of American reinforcements led by Col. John Stotsenburg. The Filipino forces were eventually compelled to retreat. Among the Filipinos who died in combat were Juan Evangelista and Pablo Maniquiz. Despite the retreat, the death of Stotsenburg and the heavy losses inflicted on the Americans boosted Filipino morale and delayed the enemy’s advance into Northern Luzon. In honor of this historic battle, the National Historical Institute installed a marker in Plaridel during its centennial commemoration.

April 25, 1956

By virtue of Republic Act No. 1414, signed by then President Ramon Magsaysay, the province of Aklan was officially established and marked its separation from the province of Capiz. Located in the Western Visayas region, Aklan is often regarded as the country’s oldest Philippine province with written history dating back as early as the middle of the 13th century. Aklan is composed of 327 barangays across 17 municipalities, with Kalibo serving as the capital town. The province is best known for Boracay, which is famous globally for its powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, healthy coral reefs and unique seashells. But Aklan is more than just a beach destination. It is also the proud home of the Kalibo Sto. Niño Ati-Atihan Festival, known as the “mother of all Philippine festivals.” Beyond its natural beauty and cultural heritage, Aklan thrives on a robust local economy rooted in agriculture and marine resources. The Aklan provincial government takes pride in the province’s balance of tradition, tourism and sustainable livelihood.

This week’s festivals

Karabasa Festival (April 20 to April 27)

The Karabasa Festival is a vibrant cultural celebration held annually in Umingan, Pangasinan, highlighting the town’s pride in its local produce, karabasa (squash). The festival celebrates the creativity and ingenuity behind the town’s wide array of squash-based products. This year’s weeklong festivities will feature an exciting lineup of events, including a float parade, beauty pageant, car show and Zumbarangay, along with themed civic nights, such as Educators’ Night, SK Night and Thanksgiving Night. One of the festival’s most anticipated events is “101 Ways to Cook Karabasa,” which not only showcases culinary creativity but also introduces new and innovative squash-based products.

Banog-Banog Festival (April 4 to April 29)

The Banog-Banog Festival is an annual monthlong celebration held in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, showcasing the municipality’s vibrant culture and deep-rooted heritage. More than just a festivity, it also serves as a platform to raise awareness about the Philippine eagle, as Manolo Fortich holds the distinction of being the first town officially declared a Philippine eagle sanctuary. This year’s festivities will feature a diverse array of events, including street dancing, parades, cultural shows, sports competitions, a music festival, and a beauty pageant. Adding to the excitement are hot air balloon displays, a lively night café, bazaars and various giveaway promos. The Banog-Banog Festival coincides with the Charter day celebration of Manolo Fortich, making it a truly special occasion for locals and visitors.

Compiled by: Nathalie Grace Adalid, Inquirer Research, Source: Inquirer Archives, LGU Numancia Aklan Facebook page, LGU Manolo Fortich Facebook page, Umingan LGU Facebook page, Ayala Museum Facebook page, aklan.gov.ph, elibrary.judiciary.gov.ph, pna.gov.ph, philippineeaglefoundation.org, nhcphistoricsites.blogspot.com