Manila: Albay celebrated the 160th birth anniversary of Gen. Simeon Ola in Guinobatan town on Tuesday, attended by local government officials and uniformed personnel. The program began with a Mass, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony, and ended with a military parade featuring columns of uniformed personnel from the area.

According to Philippines News Agency, Guinobatan Mayor Ann Gemma Ongjoco remarked on the significance of Ola's legacy to the town, which is the hero's birthplace. She emphasized that heroism does not require sacrificing one's life but can be achieved by setting a good example, particularly for government officials. "In today's challenges, we need to be honest. Let's fight for what serves the people and our country," Ongjoco stated.

Ola is remembered for his dedication as the last Filipino general to surrender to American forces on September 25, 1903, during the Philippine-American War, marking the end of the conflict in the Bicol region. His birth anniversary, September 2, is a holiday in the province as per Republic Act 11136.

The Philippine National Police Regional Headquarters in Legazpi City, once known as Camp Ibalon, was renamed Camp Simeon A. Ola on June 24, 1991, to honor his contributions and legacy.