On Sunday, Lalín gave Fernando Ónega a lasting place in town, naming a busy street and a room in the library after him. The ceremony brought emotion and memories. For Lalín, the tribute keeps Ónega’s story alive in Pontevedra, the place he called home in spirit.
Family and friends gathered for the event, alongside local officials. Sonsoles Ónega attended with her siblings Cristina and Fernando. Their father died on 3 March at 78. His absence was felt, but pride and affection filled the room. Sonsoles, known from Atresmedia, arrived with her partner Juan Monte. Ónega’s widow, Ángela Rodrigo, was also there to witness the town’s respect for her late husband.
The Biblioteca Municipal now has a room named for Ónega, who was once named Hijo Adoptivo de Lalín. It holds about 400 books from his personal collection. He donated them to the town, reflecting his commitment to Lalín’s cultural life. A basic street in the basic A Trigueiriza zone, directly opposite the Mercadona supermarket, also bears his name.
Manolo Seixas Calviño attended as a representative of the Club de Periodistas Gallegos in Madrid. The club once named Ónega Maestro de Periodistas for his influence on Spanish media. Mayor José Crespo Iglesias and other town leaders joined the family. El Correo Gallego and Diario de Pontevedra reported that Mayor Crespo and conselleiro Román Rodríguez led the ceremony.
Ónega maintained close ties to Lalín for years. In 1996, he was herald of the Feira do Cocido. He received several honours for his work as a chronicler of Spain’s transition, and his role in the community was personal as well as professional.
The tribute also reflects a wider Spanish tradition of towns honouring people who shape civic and cultural life. El Correo Gallego and Diario de Pontevedra reported that such acts help keep local stories alive in public spaces.
Fernando Ónega’s name now appears on Lalín’s map and in its library, keeping his legacy visible to the next generation.
