ZAMBOANGA City marks the birth of the Chavacano language in the City pursuant to Ordinance 374 designating every 23rd of June as the "Dia de Fundacion Chavacano."
The Dia de Fundacion de Chavacano celebrates the founding of the Chavacano language and recognizes its role as one of the pillars of the ZamboangueƱo culture.
By virtue of Ordinance 374, the Dia de Fundacion is held every 23rd of June and highlighted by activities that focus, emphasize, and celebrate the continuing legacy of the Chavacano language.
It aims to preserve and promote the usage of Chavacano, including its culture and heritage, by all residents and new settlers.
The Chavacano language dates back to June 23, 1635, when the cornerstone of Fort Pilar, originally known as the Fuerza de San Jose, was first laid.
A ceremony aimed to celebrate culture and history will kick off with a program at the Plaza Rizal in front of City Hall at 8 a.m.
Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar and the members of the City Council will be spearheading the activity.
Belen Sheila Covarrubias, City Hall information officer, said highlighting the celebration will be three competitions centered on the chavacano language, the Chavacano Debate Exhibition at 1 p.m., the Battle of the Bands, the Awarding of Cine Chavacano film, and animation festival at 7 p.m. (Bong Garcia)