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[av_heading heading=’Palace declares Aug. 25 holiday in Iloilo City’ tag=’h3′ style=’blockquote modern-quote’ size=” subheading_active=’subheading_below’ subheading_size=’15’ padding=’10’ color=” custom_font=”][/av_heading]
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ILOILO City – He may have a bad impression of this city but President Rodrigo Duterte still declared Aug. 25, 2017 a special non-working day in this city.
The city will mark its 80th Charter Day on that day.
“It is but fitting and proper that the people of the City of Iloilo be given full opportunity to celebrate and participate in the occasion with appropriate ceremonies,” read part of Malacañang’s Proclamation No. 253.
Duterte accused this city’s mayor, Jed Patrick Mabilog, an illegal drugs coddler last year and repeated this allegation several times.
Mabilog, who denied involvement in illegal drugs, thanked the President for giving the Ilonggos the time to celebrate. He urged residents to “cooperate, partner and collaborate with the city government in various programs to ensure the success of every endeavor that would benefit everybody, especially the underprivileged.”
The Charter celebration will run for 40day beginning July 17. There will be a 7a.m. mass at the San Jose de Placer Church across Plaza Libertad to be followed by a parade ofcity government employees, barangay officials and students among others.
The City Tourism and Development Office has also lined up various activities.
“The highlight is the Iloilo City Charter Day Ball on Aug. 24. We will recognize outstanding Ilonggos and outstanding employees of city hall,” said Mabilog.
On Aug. 25, the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) and singer-actress Sarah Geronimo will stage separate concerts at the Iloilo Convention Center.
PPO will have another free show on Aug. 26.
In 80 years as a chartered city, being resilient despite the many disasters is one of the biggest achievements of the residents, said Mabilog.
“We have seen what Iloilo City is today compared to what it was before. There is always unity among us,” said Mabilog.“We are hoping to be globally competitive in terms of services, manufacturing and agri-business, arts and culture, research and technology, and tourism. These are potential areas for investments and inclusive growth.” (Iloilo City PIO/PN)
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