CATIGBIAN, BOHOL – The Municipality of Catigbian, under the leadership of Mayor Benjie Oliva, will proudly celebrate the First Commemoration of the Establishment of the Bohol Area Command (BAC) at Behind the Clouds, a landmark event honoring one of the most significant chapters in Bohol’s wartime history at the historic site of Behind the Clouds in Barangay Maitum, Catigbian, where brave Boholano freedom fighters once gathered, organized, and united in defense of their homeland during the Second World War.
During the dark years of World War II, the rugged and secluded hills of Behind the Clouds in Maitum, Catigbian became the headquarters of the Bohol Area Command (BAC), the organized guerrilla resistance force in Bohol. Established on June 29, 1943, the BAC unified freedom fighters from different towns under a common mission to resist the Japanese occupation and defend the people of Bohol. The strategic location of Behind the Clouds provided security, concealment, and a commanding view of surrounding areas, making it an ideal center for resistance activities. Led by Vicente Cubero, also known as Capt. Francisco Salazar, Boholanos fought for freedom.
More than a historical observance, the event serves as a powerful reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and unity that shaped the identity of the Boholano people. It is a tribute not only to the heroes whose names are recorded in history, but also to the countless men and women whose bravery helped preserve the freedom enjoyed by present and future generations.
The commemoration will feature meaningful and symbolic activities including the Bell Tolling Ceremony, Flower and Candle Offering, and the Empty Chair Ceremony, which represents the heroes who never returned home but whose sacrifices continue to inspire generations. Participants will also conduct a site visit to the historic camp site at Behind the Clouds, where prayers will be offered and flowers will be released into the river as a solemn tribute to the freedom fighters who gave their lives for Bohol and the nation.
The establishment of the Bohol Area Command marked a defining moment in the province’s resistance movement during the Japanese occupation. From the mountains and forests of Catigbian emerged a unified force that brought together freedom fighters from various towns of Bohol. This historic alliance strengthened the resistance movement and demonstrated the unwavering determination of Boholanos to defend their land and their people.
Mayor Benjie Oliva emphasized the importance of preserving this historic legacy:
“The story of Behind the Clouds is not only the story of Catigbian. It is the story of every Boholano who values freedom, courage, and unity. By commemorating the establishment of the Bohol Area Command, we ensure that the sacrifices of our heroes will never be forgotten and that future generations will continue to draw inspiration from their example.”
The commemoration was strengthened through the support and collaboration of the PVAO (Philippine Veterans Affairs Office), BACH (Bohol Art and Cultural Heritage) Council, and NHCP (National Historical Commission of the Philippines), whose members paid a courtesy visit to the Mayor’s Office on June 4, 2026, expressing their commitment to preserving and promoting the historical significance of Behind the Clouds and the Bohol Area Command. The Local Government Unit of Catigbian is also honored to collaborate with the Local Government Unit of Batuan in the conduct of this significant commemorative activity. As part of the program, the ceremonial lowering of the flag will take place in Batuan, Bohol, symbolizing the unity, shared heritage, and collective remembrance of the sacrifices made by the heroes of the Bohol Area Command.
As Bohol continues to move forward, this commemoration reminds all Boholanos that progress is rooted in remembrance. The freedom, peace, and opportunities enjoyed today were made possible by those who chose sacrifice over surrender and courage over fear.
Let us remember where freedom was defended. Let us honor the heroes behind the clouds. For in remembering them, we strengthen the spirit of Bohol and inspire generations yet to come.