Thursday, August 19, 2004 Arroyo gives color to awarding rites
TIGHT security, a jam-packed gym and the presence of President Arroyo made yesterday’s awarding ceremony of the winners of the 6th Dinagat Festival in Cordova a not-so-routine activity.
After all, it isn’t every year that the President would grace the occasion.
Residents of the small town suspended their daily activities, including school, to welcome President Arroyo yesterday afternoon in their gym.
It was the first time for a president to be in Cordova yesterday.
Arroyo thanked the residents for their support since 1995.
“We made you no. 1 in 1995, you are still no. 1 today,” stated a huge streamer at the junction near the municipal hall.
Even if she stayed for only 30 minutes, the residents were clearly happy over her visit.
People pushed and shoved just to get a glimpse of the President. Some, however, tried harder and got a handshake.
Speaking in Cebuano, Arroyo praised Cordova for its marine sanctuary and commended Mayor Arleigh Sitoy for being an environmentalist.
She said Cordova is even a favorite dive site of her daughter, Luli.
The President brought with her Agriculture Secretary Arthur Yap so he can help the municipality in its program for “sustainable fishing.”
Tourism Secretary Roberto Pagdanganan was also at the affair.
Arroyo said the Dinagat Festival could be featured in Intramuros together with other cultural activities held in the rest of the country.
She then called for unity so the country could move toward progress.
Before her speech, the winning contingent of Cogon Elementary School performed before Arroyo and the other guests.
Arroyo awarded the contingents from Alegria Elementary School, Cordova National High School, Cordova Central School, Barangay Marigondon, Cogon Elementary School and Barangay Gabi.
She also had her picture taken with the dancers from Cogon Elementary School before she left. (AAG)
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