Don Anselmo Diaz, born on April 21, 1887, in Talisay City, was a sugarcane farmer who unintentionally pioneered electrification in Negros. In 1920, he connected a generator to his farm tractor to light up his son’s birthday party, which impressed guests and sparked the idea of bringing electricity to their homes. This small act led to the founding of A.S. Diaz Electric Service (ASDES), the first prewar electric company in Negros. Anselmo’s work brought light to villages that once relied on candles and kerosene, improving lives and modernizing the community. He also served as mayor of Talisay from 1922 to 1925 and was the father of Celia Diaz Laurel. Although the company later closed in 1978 under martial law, its legacy remains a symbol of innovation and hope for the people of Negros.
Domain:
Location/s:
Photo Credit/s:
Salvador M. Laurel Museum and Library, n.d
Mappers:
Sheena S. Treyes, Faith S. Loreto
Tags:
A.S. Diaz Electric Service, ASDES Negros, Celia Diaz Laurel family, Don Anselmo Diaz, Filipino local leaders, Filipino sugarcane farmers, Martial law Philippines history, Negros community development, Negros electrification pioneer, Negros modernization, Negros Occidental history, Negros prewar electric company, Philippine electric pioneers, Philippine innovation history, Philippine rural electrification, Talisay City history, Talisay City mayors
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