Capitol all set for 123rd Semana sang Iloilo celebration

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor  

The provincial government is all set for the celebration of the 123rd Founding Anniversary of Iloilo through a series of fun-filled activities scheduled from April 8 to 12.

To commemorate the establishment of Iloilo’s civil government on April 11, 1901, and the modernization, resilience, and progress of Iloilo through the years, the celebration centers on the theme, “Embracing MoRProGRes: Charting Iloilo’s Path to Global Competence and Resilience at 123.”

Governor Arthur Defensor said there are no significant changes to the activities compared to last year, but he particularly highlighted the “Pasidungog” and the awarding of the “MoRProGRes Gardens.”

“We aim to recognize the achievements of our departments, which are crucial to Iloilo’s success. Everyone is welcome to join our celebration,” he said.

“We have completed one year in our MoRProGRes Gardens, which is important as it marks our progress. We are planning to expand and enhance this initiative. I believe we have achieved practical results from it,” he added.

The celebration will kick off with a fun walk parade from Sunburst Park to the Iloilo Provincial Capitol Grounds.

The Iloilo City Traffic Management Unit has cautioned motorists and commuters for a light to moderate traffic from Sunburst Park to the Capitol (J.M. Basa St. to Iznart St) on Monday from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.

The first day of the celebration will also include the turnover of LED lights to provincial and district hospitals, Cheer Dance Competition, Thanksgiving Mass, launch of the week-long MoPRroGRes Bazaar and Agri Byahe, opening of an Art Exhibit by Christhom “Do Doy” Setubal and Mark Vincent Java, and Mutya sang Barangay Kapitolyo pageant.

On the second day, the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Center will spearhead Technical Assistance Sessions on Business Development and Enhancement at the Casa Real de Iloilo Function Room A. The assistance sessions will run until April 12.

A groundbreaking ceremony for I-PORE Funded Rooftop Solar PV Systems at Ramon Duremdes District Hospital in Dumangas will be held on April 10.

On April 11, the Association of Iloilo Provincial Government Employees, in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross, will conduct an Advocacy Campaign and Blood Letting Activity at the Casa Real Grand Social Hall.

The Provincial Library and Archives Office will organize a Writers’ Forum with the Screenwriters’ Guild of the Philippines and Sumakwelan.

On April 12, the provincial government Safety and Security Services, in partnership with the Philippine National Police Regional Civil Security Unit 6, will conduct a License to Own and Possess Firearms Caravan.

An enlightening afternoon of brief talks delving into the rich tapestry of Iloilo’s history and culture with “Pa-ambit” will be held on April 13 at the Casa Real Grand Social Hall.

Various activities such as the Semana sang Iloilo IPG Sports Fest, Agri Byahe, Semana sang Iloilo Snack Fair and Exhibit, MoRProGRes Bazaar, and Fur-Ever Friends Photo Contest will simultaneously be held in the week-long celebration.