Bangued was considered as one of the most beautiful Philippine towns in the 19th century. The Old Plaza with the Octagonal Kiosk at the center was built by Engr. Señor Jose Diaz y Lata in 1863.

"Tiene una grande y magnifica plaza reformada con bonito monumento en su centro."

Many famous Philippine presidents addressed the people of Abra at the historic Kiosk before it was destroyed in World War II. After the Liberation in 1945, Mayor Longino Bersamin rebuilt the Kiosk and the Plaza.

In November 1969, Mayor Simplicio Bringas built a new and bigger stage on the north side of the Plaza. The square structure stood right across the street from the Provincial Capitol.

This new stage was called the Modesto Bringas Memorial in honor of the Mayor's father.

Like the first stage, this too became the venue of many grand affairs of many generations of ABREÑOS.

In 1999, Congressman Vicenter P. Valera and Governor Ma. Zita Claustro-Valera, the first woman Governor of Abra, envisioned a stage that would complement the quiet dignity of the renovated Provincial Capitol facade.

Classical Greek columns now stand on both sides of a much bigger stage area. These give the whole setting the quality of Timeless Elegance. The wide stairways at the front and back are clever versatile features.

On 8 of March, 2000 this stage was dedicated to the "People of Abra" on the occasion of the 83rd Foundation Anniversary of the province.

Source: Bangued Town Plaza plaque