“IT IS only in unity that we can move forward as a city.”
This was underscored by Bago City Mayor Nicholas Yulo following the success of the city’s 56th Charter Anniversary filled with month-long activities as Bagonhons way of celebrating dynamic excellence amid many challenges, especially that of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.
Taking pride in the strong ties among the locals, Yulo said the spirit of oneness that is alive in every Bagonhon has always been the number one ingredient in ensuring the success and progress of the city.
Themed “Bago City @ 56: Dynamic Excellence Beyond Challenges,” the city marked this year’s charter anniversary with a hybrid festivity from February 7 to 27.
Taking center stage in the 21-day celebration was the massive Covid-19 vaccination days in different barangays of the city.
As it recognizes the contribution of its employees in sustaining the city’s progress, the local government also staged the Employees Week 2022 comprised of segments like recognition for retirees, vlogging competition, distribution of special tokens, raffle draw, Star Kawani Awards, BaGo Rewards + Program Recognition, and Arabian Costume Contest.
The city, through the 15th Gawad Bagonhon Awards, also honored awardees from real property, corporation and business categories, as well as outstanding Bagonhons in the field of culture and the arts, agri-tourism, academe and sports.
In the bid to promote the city’s major sectors like agriculture, local products were displayed during the Farmers Weekend Market at the Bantayan Park. The Virtual Farmers and Fisherfolk Day with “Pinaka” Contest as well as Agro-Industrial Cultural Educational Trade Fair and National Arts Month were also held.
Yulo along with Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson and other city and provincial officials also led the inauguration of the P87-million New Ma-ao Public Market which is seen to further spur local economic development.
Adding color and meaning to the charter celebration were the Job Fair 2022, Thanksgiving Mass , 56th Charter Anniversary Bazaar, OFW Day Celebration, 2nd Bago Baylan Arts Festival dubbed “Kurit Baylan,” and Go Bago Show showcasing Bagonhons' skills and talents.
Other activities included the Responsible Pet Ownership Program, Best Product Search, Sugilanon sang mga Barangay, 16th Livelihood Skills Olympics, and Obra Bagonhon highlighting tatak Bagonhon products, and some pocket events like Mayor Nikko MTB Challenge and Mebsap Beneficiaries Assembly, among others.
“Once again, we have proven that we can still celebrate our charter anniversary in spite of the restrictions imposed due to the prevailing pandemic, and that means dynamic excellence,” the mayor said.
Yulo looks forward to a more fun-filled and meaningful celebration next year, especially when the pandemic is over.
“No matter how hard the challenges may be, if all of us, Bagonhons, are united, we can overcome any adversities,” he said, assuring that they will continue to uphold an excellent brand of leadership to further the growth and development of the city and its people.