Dominican Republic commemorates 218th anniversary of Battle of Palo Hincado

Authorities in the Dominican Republic, including the Presidency, the Ministry of Defense, and the Ministry of Education, held ceremonies in El Seibo to mark the 218th anniversary of the Battle of Palo Hincado.

On November 7, 1808, forces led by Brigadier Juan Sánchez Ramírez defeated the French imperial army commanded by General Jean-Louis Ferrand. This victory was a decisive moment in the Reconquista, which eventually led to the restoration of Spanish rule over the eastern part of the island in July 1809.

The commemorative events included the raising of the national flag, a military and student march, and a Te Deum service at the Santa Cruz de El Seibo colonial church. Ceremonies concluded at the Battle of Palo Hincado Monument with military honors and the laying of floral offerings by various institutions. Local leaders, including Mayor Leo Francis Zorrilla and Senator Santiago Zorrilla, participated in the acts, emphasizing national identity and sovereignty.