Evelio Javier Day In Philippines 2024

Experience the enchantment of My Evelio Javier Day in the Philippines as we delve into its rich history, vibrant celebrations, and local traditions.

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QUICK FACTS:

• Date: February 11
• Main Components: Commemoration of the death anniversary of former Antique governor and opposition leader Evelio Javier
• Popularity: A special non-working public holiday in four provinces of Panay Island and Guimaras
• Pairings: Various activities such as parades, floral offerings, cultural shows, and sports events
• Variations: Also known as Araw ni Evelio Javier or Adlaw ni Evelio Javier

Introduction

Evelio Javier Day is a public holiday in the provinces of Antique, Aklan, Capiz, and Guimaras in the Philippines. It is celebrated every February 11 to commemorate the death anniversary of former Antique governor and opposition leader Evelio Javier. Javier was assassinated by gunmen on February 11, 1986 at the Freedom Park in San Jose de Buenavista, Antique. His death sparked public outrage and became a tipping point for the People Power Revolution that toppled the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos .

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Background

• Evelio Javier was a lawyer and politician who served as the governor of Antique from 1971 to 1980.
• He was an ally of Corazon Aquino, the widow of Benigno Aquino Jr. and the presidential candidate of the opposition against Marcos in the 1986 snap elections .
• Javier was in charge of protecting the ballot boxes in his province during the elections, which were marred by widespread fraud and violence .
• On February 11, 1986, while he was monitoring the canvassing of votes at the provincial capitol, he was attacked by armed men loyal to Marcos and his local ally, Arturo Pacificador .
• Javier managed to escape and sought refuge in a nearby convent, but he was surrounded and shot dead after a four-hour siege .

Significance

• Evelio Javier became a martyr and a symbol of the resistance against Marcos’ tyranny .
• His funeral was attended by thousands of people who chanted “Evelio lives!” and “Marcos resign!” .
• His assassination galvanized the opposition and inspired more protests and defections from Marcos’ camp .
• His death also drew international attention and condemnation, putting more pressure on Marcos to step down .
• His legacy is honored by the Evelio B. Javier Foundation, which promotes good governance, democracy, and education in his home province

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Celebrations

• Evelio Javier Day was first declared as a special non-working holiday in Antique by President Corazon Aquino in 1987.
• In 2004, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo expanded the holiday to include the provinces of Aklan, Capiz, and Guimaras, which are part of the same island group as Antique.
• The holiday is also known as Araw ni Evelio Javier in Filipino or Adlaw ni Evelio Javier in Kinaray-a .
• The holiday is marked by various activities such as parades, floral offerings, cultural shows, and sports events .
• The highlight of the celebration is the re-enactment of Javier’s last moments at the Freedom Park, where a monument in his honor stands.

Conclusion

• Evelio Javier Day is a public holiday that commemorates the life and death of a local hero who fought for democracy and justice in the Philippines.
• It is celebrated every February 11 in four provinces that share a common history and culture with Antique, where Javier was born and killed.
• It is a day to remember his sacrifice and courage, and to uphold his values and vision for his country.