A true nationalist, President Elpidio Quirino, second president of the Republic of the Philippines was remembered on his 120th birth anniversary on November 16. Vice President Jejomar Binay, Vice Governor DV Savellano and Vigan City Mayor Eva Marie S. Medina led national and local government officials in commemorating the birth of the first Ilocano president. National Historical Commission of the Philippines Acting Executive Director Mely Almosara, members of the family of the late president, Ms. Cory Quirino, Luis Elpidio Gonzales, Ms. Ruby Meyer, Architect and Mrs. Pinggoy Mañosa and former Congressman Salacnib Baterina were present to unveil the historical marker of Apo Pidiong at Plaza Salcedo.
Mayor Eva gave a very inspiring message which emphasized the greatness and personal virtues of honesty and integrity of Apo Pidiong.
After the program , the President Elpidio R. Quirino Memorabilia Hall at the Syquia Mansion was inaugurated as a permanent display room of the former president’s artifacts such as shoes, clothes, bed and also the priceless Amorsolo portraits of Doña Alicia Syquia-Quirino, President Quirino and their wedding portrait.
The display will help Bigueños understand the times and the legacy of one of the last “gentleman-presidents” whose ambitions were exceeded only by their sense of propriety, decorum and fair play.