LA TRINIDAD, Benguet -- Mayor Edna Tabanda led the 64th founding anniversary of the province capital in simple rites, Monday morning.
Tabanda said there is a lot to be thankful for in the town and stressed teamwork between the local government as well as the private sector will contribute a lot more to the development of the town.
The celebration, themed "Moving forward and facing the challenges at 64", was graced by Governor Nestor Fongwan and Representative Ronald Cosalan, which started with a civic parade and ended with a cultural performance in the afternoon.
Special awards highlighted the celebration at the Municipal Gym, which gave credit to outstanding Valley folk and stakeholders.
Golden Kayabang awardees included Governor Nestor Fongwan for Public Service; Dean James Malaya for education and the academe; doctor Ryan Guinaran for community service; Miguel Luma-ang for transport cooperatives; the LTVTO MPC for farmers cooperative; LT Water district and BENECO for uitilities; Eric Espadero for business; Jordan Mang-osan for Arts and Culture; LATOP for organic Agriculture; farmers Miguel Bagtila, Anthony Anniban and Andy Colte; and sportsmen Brico Santig and Marques Sangiao.
Special citations were given to Narda Capuyan, Dr. Rosendo and Faustina Gualdo and Professor Sunee Singhakachen for excellence in business and entrepreneurship while Doctors Rogelio Colting, Silvestre Kudan and Sonwright Maddul were recognized for their contributions to the academe.
Outstanding youth leaders and sports personalities, Aileen Kryl Simeon, Aliza Castro, Safrone Dicamm Vience Villanueva, Allan Castro, Martes Dionisio, Luigi Paolo Wong and Alieson Ken Omengan were likewise lauded for their contributions.
"We should not take people for granted, we should recognize and give honor," Tabanda said.
The chief executive said a continuation of programs of the past administration as well as new programs under her helm are being undertaken by the town stressing on peace and order, women’s rights, waste management and the addressing of social problems as top priorities.
Tabanda said the mantra of local governance is "good governance and transparency," which reflects a cooperation with the people.