Santo Domingo. – The remains of the national hero Juan Rodríguez García (Juancito Rodríguez) They were transferred this Saturday to Pantheon of the Homelandafter a solemn ceremony in his memory headed by the president Luis Abinaderwho described the tribute as “an act of historical justice and the fairest recognition of his legacy.”
Juancito Rodríguez, born in Estancia Nueva, Moca, in 1886was a prosperous farmer, rancher and politician who dedicated much of his life to productive work in the Barranca, La Vegawhere he built one of the most important estates in the region. In addition, he served as a senator and deputy, however, his life took a turn when he openly confronted the dictatorship of Rafael Leónidas Trujillo Molinawhich led him to exile and lose his fortune, his lands and a good part of his family.
From CubaRodríguez became a determined opponent of the Trujillo regime, providing resources and logistical support to the libertarian expeditions of Confite Cay (1947) and Luperon (1949)as well as other movements that sought to restore democracy in the Dominican Republic.
His commitment to freedom cost him everything, including the life of his first-born son, José Horacio Rodríguezwho died in expedition of June 14, 1959. Juancito Rodríguez died a year later, the November 19, 1960in exile in Havana, Cuba.
In May 2025, through the Decree 288-25President Abinader officially declared it National Herorecognizing their bravery, sacrifice and dedication to democratic ideals.
With its transfer to the Pantheon of the Homeland, the Government seeks “may his name and legacy be known and valued by new generations”said the president during the ceremony.
Rodríguez’s remains rested in the cMoca municipal cemeteryalong with those of his daughter Pucha Rodríguez, also a combatant in the anti-Trujillo resistance.
Juancito Rodríguez is remembered as a symbol of anti-trujillisma man who sacrificed fortune, well-being and family for the cause of Dominican freedom.
Life of great significance
During the State funeral, prior to his transfer to the Pantheon of the Homeland, President Luis Abinader assured that the example and the sacrifice of Juancito Rodríguez will remain alive in the national memory, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to the freedom valuesjustice and sovereignty.
“Everything he had he offered for the sake of a free homelandand he did it with revolutionary tenacity, dignity without duplicity and the fearless courage of those who put the interest of the country above all personal losses,” added the head of state.
The solemn event was attended by other prominent figures in public life, such as the vice president of the Republic, Raquel Pena; the first lady, Raquel Arbaje; the Minister of Culture, Roberto Ángel Salcedo; the Minister of the Interior and Police, Faride Raful; and the Minister of Defense, Carlos Antonio Fernández Onofre.
