2018 Pakaradjaan festival reels off

THE year-long celebration of the 29th founding anniversary of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao's (ARMM), dubbed the 2018 Pakaradjaan festival, kicked off Monday, March 26.

ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman said the festival highlights the gains of good governance in ARMM and the diversity of the heritage of the Bangsamoro people.

“The year-long commemoration of the ARMM’s history features events and activities showcasing the diversity of the region’s cultures and traditions, connected by its people’s shared passion for peace and justice in the region,” Hataman said.

The festival is anchored on the theme, “The ARMM Legacy: Exemplifying Good Governance in the Bangsamoro.”

The lineup of events and activities include the following: launching and ribbon cutting of ARMM Villages, April 16; Ramadhan Trade Fair, May 15 to June 15; Food Festival, July 23; MasterChef Competition, August 24; ARMM debate competition, September 21 to 23; Lanao del Sur cultural night, October 17; Tawi-Tawi cultural night, October 24; Sulu cultural night, October 31; Sheikh Makhdum Celebration, November 7; Basilan cultural night, November 14; Sayaw Street Dance Competition, November 19; Maguindanao cultural night, November 21; Moro Film Festival, December 4 to 7; Sports Peace Festival, November 7 to December 9; Shariff Kabunsuan, Closing Program and Awards Night, Fluvial Float Competition, December 19.

Hataman, together with the different ARMM officials, led the banging of the gong which signaled the opening of the celebration.

Similar ceremonies were also held earlier in the five component provinces of the region. (SunStar Philippines)