Birth Centennial of Eddie Sinco Romero : A cultural Hero

 Eddie Sinco Romero, a national artist for film and broadcast arts, celebrated his 100th birthday on behalf of the people of Dumaguete and the Province of  Negros Oriental . The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), Foundation University, Silliman University Culture and Arts Council,National Museum of the Philippines Dumaguete and the City Government of Dumaguete collaborated to arrange the event, which honored Romero's significant contributions to Philippine cinema.

Eddie Romero, who was conferred the Order of National Artists for Film and Broadcast Arts, the highest recognition bestowed upon Filipino individuals for their exceptional contributions to Philippine Arts as a Cultural Hero . Romero, a beloved figure in Negros Oriental, was celebrated for his prolific career spanning decades. 

The family of the late Eddie Sinco Romero 

 

Director Joey Romero, speaking on behalf of the Romero family, expressed deep gratitude to Mayor Ipe Remollo and the NCCA for organizing the series of events honoring his father's legacy. The festivities included free public screenings, lectures, film restoration workshops, an exhibit, and the unveiling of a bronze bust of Eddie Romero at The Presidencia, symbolizing his enduring impact on Filipino culture.

Jeffrey Sonora, Supervising Head of FPJ Archives, highlighted the meticulous restoration efforts behind Aguila, a period drama starring Fernando Poe Jr. that intricately weaves Philippine history into a poignant narrative. The film not only showcases Romero's directorial brilliance but also serves as a testament to his dedication to preserving Filipino heritage through cinema.

The open showings of Romero's well-known films, such Ganito Kami Noon and Paano Kayo Ngayon? (1976), Kamakalawa (1981) at Silliman University's Luce Auditorium, and Aguila at Pantawan Rizal People Park, demonstrating his varied storytelling abilities and cultural impact.

Dumaguete City Mayor Felipe Antonio B. Remollo

 

Dr. Warlito S. Caturay Jr., representing Silliman University, and Dr. Charlotte Cariño of Foundation University, joined in paying tribute to Romero’s legacy, underscoring his influence as a mentor and visionary in Philippine cinema.

Dr. Mira Sinco and Foundation University 

Mayor Felipe Antonio B. Remollo praised y accepted the bronze bust of National Artist Eddie Romero, which was provided by the NCCA. Frederick I. Caedo is a well-known Filipino sculptor who is well-known both domestically and internationally for his exquisite work. The relatives of Eddie Romero by consanguinity and affinity, including the Negros Historian Prof. Penn T.Larena with the  Villanuevas, Sincos, Muñozes, Calumpangs,Teveses and Remollos, were present during the unveiling ceremony. The first lady  Atty. Cristine Remollo. Speaker of the House Martin Romualdez's chief political affairs officer, Atty. Dio Remollo was also present at the event. 

Villanueva family from Bais City with Negros Historian Prof. Penn T. Larena, Movie Star Chanda Romero and former Mayors Karen and her father Hector Tata Villanueva

Among the city  and provincial officials  present were Board Member Marie Carlisle Diago Reyes, councilors Karissa Tolentino-Maxino, Jose A. Baldado, Rey Lyndon Lawas, Franklin D. Esmeña, SK President Miguel Aseniero, City Administrator Lilani Ramon, Assistant City Administrator Dinno T. Depositario ,Atty Manuel Rotea Arbon and other department heads of LGU Dumaguete. 

The event concluded with the Silliman University Campus Choristers performing “Iduyan Mo,” composed by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab for Aguila, evoking the film's enduring impact on Filipino cultural heritage.

Eddie Sinco  Romero’s legacy continues to inspire generations of filmmakers and artists, reflecting his commitment to elevating Philippine cinema on the global stage. The commemorative events in Dumaguete City stand as a testament to his enduring influence and contribution to the cultural tapestry of the Philippines.

Sinco, Romero and Remollo family with Director Joey Romero and Dr. Mira Sinco

Signing of the deed of donation witnessed by Dumaguete City Councilors with NCCA  Marichu Tellano and Joey Romero 

Baena Cousins Negros Historian  Penn T. Larena, Karen Baena -Bigay and RB Romero

Mayor Ipe B. Remollo,Movie Star Chanda Romero and Joey Romero