Himamaylan Archives - Cultural Mapping of Panay and Guimaras

February 18, 2026

CMPG

The Gandola Orchestra, a cultural group from Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental, was founded by Teofilo Tiangha Gandola, Sr. in the 1950s. It began as a family-based orchestra where Teofilo Sr. taught his children and other locals how to play various instruments, eventually forming the popular “Gandola Orchestra and His Combo.” The group gained fame across Negros for their talent and dedication, later passing on their musical legacy to younger generations. However, the orchestra declined in the early 1970s due to the rise of affordable sound systems and the restrictions during Martial Law that limited social events. Despite this, the Gandola ...

Significant Personalities

HERMINIO “ERMI” P. AURELIO

Himamaylan, Negros Occidental

February 18, 2026

CMPG

Herminio P. Aurelio, born on May 29, 1939, in Murcia, Negros Occidental, is a self-taught sculptor who began learning the craft during his elementary years. Inspired by public sculptures in Bacolod City, he later moved to Himamaylan and worked various jobs, including as a driver and welder, while continuing his passion for art. He creates sculptures from memory using materials like cement, wood, latex, and papier mâché, and has passed on his artistic skills to his children, who are also engaged in various forms of art. Many of his works are displayed in public spaces and feature political figures, religious ...

Intangible Cultural Heritage, Oral Traditions and Expressions, including Language

KATAWTAWAN

Himamaylan, Negros Occidental, Sitio Bingig

February 18, 2026

CMPG

The Katawtawan folktale from Sitio Bingig in Himamaylan City tells of a silver church bell hidden during the Japanese occupation in 1942 to protect it from being taken. The bell, once used to warn residents of approaching Japanese soldiers, was thrown into the deepest part of Bingig River after the Japanese began searching for it. According to locals, strange events followed, the appearance of a venomous snake and mysterious sounds and sightings in the river, including a fish-tailed creature believed to guard the bell. This tale, passed down by elders, highlights the bravery of locals and the strong presence of ...

GANDOLA ORCHESTRA

Cultural Mapping Of Panay and Guimaras

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