Kanlaon Lodge No.64

By WB Jose Estacion / WB Alipio Ykalina ll

The 64th Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of the Philippines mark one hundred years of brotherhood, truth, and service last October 22, 2020. From three founding brethren from Iloilo-Acacia Lodge No. 11 who have lived in the province of Negros Occidental, its number have currently grown into 61 Negrenses continuously involved in masonic labors across the Visayan Island. Inflamed with passion to enrich their province with Masonic Light, they have named their lodge Kanla-on, after the sturdy, active volcano in their midst.

In September 1920, WB Eriberto Gonzales, Bro. Manuel Fernandez Yanson, and Bro. Manuel Garcia, all members of Iloilo Lodge No. 11 led a meeting with other Masons to establish a lodge in the Negros Island. The dispensation was granted in October 22 of the same year, and on December 11 five prospects were elected to receive Masonic Degrees. Future Worshipful Master Ildefenso Cosocolluela was the first member raised.

On January 20, 1921, WB Judge Manuel Camus, then Lodge Inspector, presented to the office of the Grand Secretary the documents related to the founding of this lodge. A charter was granted five days later during the 9th Annual Communications.

WB Franciso Gumilag, as Master of Ceremonies, constituted the Lodge and installed its first set of officers. Prominent Masons from Manila, the Visayan Islands, Mindanao, and other regions flocked to witness the solemnities. It was the first time that the people of the Negros saw Masons in their regalla, an impression far from the negative picture that some thought it to be. Installed as the first lodge officers during its constitution were: WB Eriberto Gonzales, Charter Master; Bro. Manuel Fernandez Yanson, Senior Warden; and Bro. Manuel Garcia, Junior Warden. The trio laid the foundations which has now lasted for a century.

During the Installation of the first son of Kanlaon 64 - WB Ildefenso Cosocolluela in 1925, two distinguished guests graced the occasion, MW Manuel L. Quezon and Bro. Manuel A. Roxas, the two Masons will in later years become President of the Philippines.

Just like the highest peak and downward slopes of Mt. Kanla-on, the Lodge had experienced its fair share of elevated success and descending episodes. The Great Pacific War forced the

lodge to close in 1941 leaving the members to face the difficulties. When peace was restored in 1945, the brethren reactivated the lodge, thanks to the help of brother masons from the 40th Division. Another unfortunate time was the fire that razed the Temple in 1955. Undaunted, the members reconstructed a new Temple, which was christened as the Freemasons Hall the following year.

During her Centennial Year in 2020 – the Lodge embarked in various community projects outside the lodge.

• Blood-letting Activities - January 19 / St. Scholastica Academy - November 28 / Brgy. Montevista Gym,

Bacolod City • Frontliner Assistance - March 23 & 31 / Bacolod City Checkpoints • Community Outreach - April 12 & 18 / Brgy. Estefania, Bacolod

City - May 9 / Sacadas (Karga Tupas) of

Purok Dakudaw at Brgy. Vista Alegre,

Bacolod City • Operation Tuli - June 11 / Brgy. Montevista Gym,

Bacolod City • Masonic Funeral Rites - October 25 for VW Pong C. Tan - December 18 for Bro. Henry C. Uy

My greeting to each and every one for sharing this momentous occasion with us as we embark upon the Celebration of our Centennial. The officers and members of Kanlaon Lodge No. 64, F.&A.M. are all very fortunate to have the opportunity to celebrate the centennial anniversary of our beloved lodge considering that this is a once-in-a-lifetime event. We thank our Almighty Father for allowing us in this situation. Our centennial celebration offers the opportunity, not only to commemorate a century of success, but also to reflect on the challenges ahead of us especially in these difficult and uncertain time of the Pandemic. As we remember our memorable past and celebrate our achievements, we must also look firmly toward the future and rededicate ourselves to continue on improving. It should be borne in mind that the purpose of Masonry is self-improvement, not in the material sense but rather the intellectual, moral, and philosophical improvement of oneself. Not only do we want to be better men in general, but we want to be better husbands and fathers and employees and citizens. We, as Masons strive to be better people, and it’s a way of life for us. Fitly, if you want to be a better person, you associate with better people, and you all work collectively to the better good. There is no denying that the road ahead will still be challenging but it will also be rewarding as always. Over the course of a century, Masonry has offered many things to our society. Accordingly, as part of our centennial celebration, Kanlaon Lodge No. 64, throughout the year, has arranged a series of events and activities that will highlight the contribution of Freemasonry in the entire province of Negros. Let us embrace this centennial year by instilling onto our heart and mind our responsibilities for the next generation. Let us continue to build a strong and resilient future. May we grow in discernment and reflection of being always aware of the contributions that we can give for Masonry in the many years to come.

Jubert LV. Carbajosa Centennial Master