Antique: Antique±os gathered on Wednesday to commemorate the 40th death anniversary of the late Governor Evelio Javier, a freedom fighter considered a local hero in Antique. The event featured a wreath-laying ceremony before Javier's bronze statue at the Evelio B. Javier Freedom Park, led by Governor Paolo Everardo Javier, along with a short program.
According to Philippines News Agency, former Governor Salvacion Zaldivar-Perez, a colleague of Javier, delivered a message through Land Transportation Office Antique head Eric Otayde. She reflected on Javier's dedication to restoring freedom in a time of widespread fear. His eldest son, Francis Gideon, recounted how his father returned to Antique from Los Angeles, ready to sacrifice his life for his cause. He shared a personal story of his father making a farewell call to his family before his assassination.
Javier was assassinated on February 11, 1986, in front of the New Antique Capitol, which is now known as the Evelio B. Javier Freedom Park. His martyrdom played a significant role in sparking the 1986 People Power Revolution. Governor Javier expressed gratitude for his uncle's enduring legacy and pledged to lead with empathy as the current governor. Republic Act 7601 designates February 11 as a special non-working public holiday in Panay to honor Evelio B. Javier's contributions.
