By Jansryl A. Lamzon, BA ELS-4, Centralian Link Intern

Honoring Legacy: Prof. Ambeth R. Ocampo (right) receives a certificate of appreciation from Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, University President (left), and Dr. Diadem Pearl Sonza-Equiña, daughter of Demy P. Sonza, after delivering a powerful lecture.

More than 2,000 attendees gathered at Central Philippine University (CPU) to posthumously honor esteemed historian and journalist Demetrio “Demy” P. Sonza by holding the first Demy P. Sonza Memorial Lecture. The tribute culminated in a historical presentation by renowned historian Ambeth Ocampo, who delivered the lecture entitled “Rizal Without the Overcoat” at the Rose Memorial Auditorium on March 3, 2025.

The event began with a heartfelt invocation by Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor of the University Church, followed by the National Anthem and the Alma Mater song. University President, Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, delivered the welcome remarks, highlighting Sonza’s influential legacy and expressing excitement for Ocampo’s lecture titled “Rizal Without the Overcoat.” Rev. Dr. Dagohoy also reflected on CPU’s history and its 120th anniversary, which will be celebrated in October, emphasizing the importance of history in shaping the future.

The program included a reading of Demy Sonza’s biography by Bgen. Ezra James P. Enriquez (ret.), Vice President of the CPU Alumni Association, who honored Sonza’s extensive work in both government and literature. From serving as Director of Planning and Development at CPU to being elected as a member of the Provincial Board of Iloilo, Sonza’s career was marked by his commitment to advancing the local community and documenting its history.

Step into history! Visit the Henry Luce III Library and explore the literary works of Demetrio ‘Demy’ P. Sonza, now on display until March 7, 2025.

Asst. Prof. Nisseth Sonza Equiña-Alvior, granddaughter of Demy P. Sonza and faculty member of CPU’s Department of Social Sciences, introduced the guest lecturer, Prof. Ambeth R. Ocampo. In her introduction, Asst. Prof. Equiña-Alvior highlighted Ocampo’s significant contributions to Philippine history and his extensive body of work, which includes over 35 books and numerous accolades.

The highlight of the event was Prof. Ambeth Ocampo’s lecture, “Rizal Without the Overcoat.” He emphasized the importance of remembering historian Demy P. Sonza for his writings rather than his government roles, as his books ensure his lasting legacy. Ocampo expressed hope that future historians would emerge from the younger generation. His lecture focused on Rizal’s relevance today, fake news and history, and redefining heroism. He shared a personal story about his father’s question regarding Rizal’s overcoat on his monument, which led him to explore how Rizal dressed. Ocampo also challenged traditional notions of heroism, questioning why Filipino heroes are often seen as dead figures from the past. He argued that modern heroism takes different forms and should not be confined to sacrificing one’s life. He ended by urging the audience to study Rizal’s humanity, as understanding him means understanding the Filipino identity and potential for greatness.

“I would like to invite you to reflect on the things I shared with you today. Go back, study Rizal again, because to know Rizal is to understand what it means to be Filipino. To know Rizal is to recognize that his humanity is the secret of his greatness. To know Rizal is to realize the Filipino capacity for greatness. To know Rizal is to understand that we, too, can become bayani today,” Prof. Ambeth R. Ocampo said.

Ocampo’s engaging lecture was followed by an open forum, where attendees discussed the ideas presented. The session concluded with a certificate of appreciation being presented to Ocampo by Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy and Dr. Diadem Pearl Sonza-Equiña, daughter of Demy P. Sonza. In her closing remarks, Dr. Sonza-Equiña, who is also the Associate Dean of CPU’s College of Medicine, expressed her gratitude to all who attended and contributed to the success of the event.

An exhibition of Sonza’s literary works was also held at the Henry Luce III Library, featuring six of his significant publications, including The Stirred Pool (1951), Visayan Freedom Fighters (1962), and Mightier Than Sword (1964). The exhibit, which runs until March 7, invites the public to explore Sonza’s influential writings, which reflect his dedication to preserving and sharing local history.

The Demy P. Sonza Memorial Lecture and exhibit were a fitting tribute to a man whose legacy continues to inspire and inform the fields of history and journalism. Through this initiative, CPU reaffirms its commitment to honoring the achievements of its alumni and contributing to the advancement of Philippine culture and history.