Iloilo City culminates 73rd Charter Day
Iloilo City is holding the culmination of its 73rd Charter Day celebration today, which has been declared holiday by Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog for all city government offices and public schools.
The day will start with a mass at La Paz Catholic Church followed by a civic-military parade of about 5,000 participants, including city employees, barangay officials, tanods, health workers, teachers, and students, from La Paz plaza to Freedom Grandstand.
Today’s affair is the highlight of the 40-day commemoration that will also include a medical mission, jobs fair, oratorical contest, and city tours.
Tonight, the Mayor’s Ball will be held at Punta Villa Resort where the winners of the search for Iloilo City model male and female employees and the awardees of the “Dungog sang Dakbanwa sang Iloilo” will be announced.
The Charter Day activities started in July 16 with a thanksgiving mass, followed by different events spearheaded by the City Tourism and Development Office and other partner agencies, sectors and private groups.
Its theme “Dakbanwa sang Iloilo, Bugal Ko” (My City, My pride) aims to raise awareness about the city’s history and development and instill a “pride of place” among Ilonggos by showcasing Iloilo City’s history and culture during the festivities.
“I hope every Ilonggo will have a sense of ownership of our city because we want the future generation to also enjoy the same kind of benefits as we have now,” Mabilog said.
Security
Meanwhile, the Iloilo City Police Office will provide maximum security in all areas of the Charter Day events.
Senior Insp. Graciano Zapanta, deputy chief of the ICPO’s Operation Unit, said K-9s or bomb sniffing dogs will roam in the vicinities of La Paz plaza and Freedom Grandstand.
Aside from uniformed policemen, covert or plainclothes personnel will also be deployed.
“We have enough personnel to secure the events. The public should be aware that there are policemen around,” he said.*
