The Enduring Debate Over MJ Cuenco Avenue's Renaming
On January 16, the 137th birth anniversary of Mariano Jesus Cuenco was commemorated along the road that now bears his name: MJ Cuenco Avenue. This event has reignited a long-standing controversy in Cebu, where the street's original name, Calle delos Martires, was replaced in 1964, sparking ongoing discussions about historical preservation and political recognition.
A Legacy of Martyrdom Erased?
Many residents and historians continue to express dismay over the decision to rename the avenue. The original name, Calle delos Martires, was dedicated to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for freedom during the Spanish colonial period. These individuals were imprisoned in the provincial jail, then located in Barangay Tejero—now the Museo Sugbo—and were marched along this very road to Plaza Independencia, where they faced execution. Critics argue that replacing a name honoring collective sacrifice with that of a single politician diminishes a crucial part of Cebu's historical narrative.
The Life and Career of Mariano Jesus Cuenco
Born in Carmen City, Mariano Jesus Cuenco was a prominent figure in Philippine politics. He earned a Bachelor of Arts from Colegio de San Carlos, completed his law degree in Manila in 1911, and passed the bar exams in 1913. Cuenco was also a writer, publishing in the Spanish newspaper El Precursor and contributing in Bisaya under the pen name Lauro Katindog.
His political career was extensive and impactful. He served as Congressman for Cebu's Fifth District from 1912, with re-elections until 1928, and won the governorship of Cebu in 1931. Cuenco was a delegate to the 1934 Constitutional Convention and held key cabinet positions, including Secretary of Public Works and Communications from 1936 to 1939, and Acting Secretary for the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, and Industry.
Elected as Senator in 1941 and re-elected in 1946, Cuenco rose to become Senate President and Chairman of the Commission on Appointments from 1949 to 1951. After a defeat in 1951, he returned to the Senate in 1953 and 1959, serving until his passing in 1964. His contributions to government are numerous, though not all can be detailed here due to space constraints.
Balancing Historical Recognition
The renaming of the avenue raises a poignant question: Is it just to replace Calle delos Martires with MJ Cuenco Avenue? Proponents of the change highlight Cuenco's significant public service and his role in shaping the nation's political landscape. They argue that naming a street after him is a fitting tribute to his decades of dedication.
However, opponents emphasize the importance of preserving historical memory, particularly for the martyrs whose stories are integral to Cebu's identity. They suggest that while Cuenco deserves recognition, it should not come at the expense of erasing a symbol of collective sacrifice. This debate reflects broader issues in Philippine society about how to honor both individual achievements and communal heritage.
As Cebu continues to evolve, the discussion around MJ Cuenco Avenue serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between politics, history, and public memory. Whether the renaming is seen as a progressive step or a historical oversight, it remains a topic of reflection for residents and historians alike.
