Iloilo City launches Atipan Fair on 88th Charter Day

By Mariela Angella Oladive

As Iloilo City marked its 88th Charter Day with the theme “Celebrating 88 Years of Resilient Innovations for Sustainable Empowerment,” the city government launched its first Atipan Fair, offering nearly 800 residents easier access to essential services.

The event, held on Monday, Aug. 25, at the public plazas of Jaro, Molo, and Arevalo, provided free haircuts and massages, senior citizen ID processing, gender change applications on Certificates of Live Birth, training applications through the Technical Institute of Iloilo City (TIIC), and other government assistance programs.

Mayor Raisa Treñas-Chu said the fair is part of her administration’s effort to bring government services closer to the people.

“Today, we launched this program for the people. We want residents to know that we are celebrating this special day with them,” she said.

She also announced plans to expand Atipan Centers to all districts, aiming to make public services more accessible to residents.

On regular days, residents can visit the main Atipan Center on the seventh floor of Iloilo City Hall for a full range of social services.

Charter Day, celebrated every August, commemorates Iloilo City’s transition into a chartered city in 1937 — a milestone that honored its rich heritage, vibrant economy, and hardworking people.

Treñas-Chu said the celebration is not only about heritage or development, but also about the resilience, unity, and empowerment of the Ilonggo people.

“Eighty-eight years ago, Iloilo City became a chartered city, ushering in an era of progress, growth, and a distinct identity that continues to shine today,” she said.

“Over the decades, we have witnessed the growth of our city not only in terms of commerce and infrastructure, but more importantly, in the strength, capacity, and character of our people.”

She added that this year’s Charter Day is anchored on the principle of inclusivity, with the celebration designed to reach every corner of the city and every level of society.

The launch of the Atipan Centers serves as a district-based initiative to bring essential services closer to families.

“Now is the time to rise to action, work hand in hand, go beyond words, and transform love for our city into meaningful deeds,” Treñas-Chu added.