San Diego Pro-Cathedral Lighting Project in Silay City

San Diego Pro-Cathedral Lighting Project

Table of Contents

San Diego Pro-Cathedral Lighting Project in Silay City Reflects Faith, Heritage, and Negros Power’s Community Role

A Gathering Shaped by Quiet Anticipation

On the evening of January 12, 2026, people slowly gathered in front of the San Diego Pro-Cathedral. Parishioners stood side by side with city officials, families with workers still wearing their uniforms. The atmosphere was calm yet expectant, as if the crowd understood that this was more than a ceremonial switch of lights—it was a moment of shared meaning for the city.

A Living Testament to Silay’s History [ San Diego Pro-Cathedral Lighting ]

The San Diego Pro-Cathedral has long been a silent witness to Silay City’s story. While the structure now marks its 100th year as a cathedral, the Parish of San Diego traces its beginnings to 1776, making it one of the oldest religious institutions in the region. In a city celebrated as the Paris of Negros, the cathedral remains a central anchor of heritage, faith, and collective memory.

Messages Rooted in Stewardship and Pride [ San Diego Pro-Cathedral Lighting ]

The program opened with a prayer and blessing led by Rev. Fr. Angelo J. Ansula, whose words emphasized responsibility over ceremony. He spoke of the church not only as a place of worship, but as a symbol of continuity and hope for generations of Silaynons.

This message was echoed by Joedith Gallego, who highlighted the lighting project as a meaningful investment in cultural identity. Rather than focusing on infrastructure alone, the mayor framed the initiative as a way to strengthen community pride and deepen appreciation for Silay’s historic landmarks.

Negros Power, together with the San Diego Pro-Cathedral community, lights up the cathedral in Silay City on January 12, 2026, symbolizing the glow of faith, heritage, and community pride. From left to right: Mr. Salvador Somes, Mr. Joel Jaquinta, Rev. Fr. Angelo Ansula, Ms. Gerle Sulmaca, Hon. Darryl Hinolan, Engr. Jeric Pancho, Hon. Joedith Gallego, Engr. Bernard Bailey del Castillo, Engr. Christian John Villena, Hon. Michael Maravilla, Engr. Leomel Tambanillo, Ms. Ma. Cecilia Pe, Engr. Edwin Montemayor, and Atty. Lyana Paula Tomulto.

Negros Power: Lighting Heritage with Purpose [ San Diego Pro-Cathedral Lighting ]

A significant part of the evening’s narrative belonged to Negros Power, whose role went beyond providing technical support. The presence of its engineers and employees among parishioners underscored a partnership rooted in service. Through this project, Negros Power demonstrated how modern energy solutions can respectfully coexist with heritage preservation.

Representing the company, Bernard Bailey Del Castillo delivered the turnover message, emphasizing collaboration and shared responsibility. The illumination of the cathedral stood as an example of how power utilities can contribute not only to economic progress, but also to cultural stewardship—bringing light in a way that honors history rather than overshadowing it.

Light as Meaning, Not Ornament [ San Diego Pro-Cathedral Lighting ]

In his reflection, Fr. Ansula described the illumination as a symbol of hope, truth, and unity. He reminded the crowd that the light was not meant to decorate the church, but to reflect the values it represents. For many in attendance—some of whom had celebrated life’s milestones within those walls—the message resonated deeply.

The Moment the City Looked Up

As the countdown began, voices joined naturally across generations. When the lights were finally switched on, the cathedral’s façade glowed with a warm, steady brilliance. Architectural details once hidden by darkness emerged clearly, drawing quiet admiration from the crowd. Applause followed, not loud or prolonged, but sincere.

A Landmark That Continues to Lead [ San Diego Pro-Cathedral Lighting ]

The San Diego Pro-Cathedral is the second largest church in the Diocese of Bacolod, next only to San Sebastian Cathedral. Yet its significance lies not in scale, but in its role as a spiritual and cultural compass for the city.

A Shared Achievement, A Lasting Glow

The illumination of the San Diego Pro-Cathedral stands as a testament to what thoughtful collaboration can achieve. Through the combined efforts of the church, the local government, and Negros Power, a historic landmark was not only preserved, but reintroduced to the community in a new light.

Long after the crowd dispersed, the cathedral remained illuminated against the night sky—a quiet, enduring symbol of faith, heritage, and a city united in purpose.