THE city government, in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd), marked the celebration of the 71st Agew na Dagupan on June 20 in commemorative rites held at CSI Stadia.

City Mayor Belen T. Fernandez, together with Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Lorna Bugayong and Young City Mayor Jalen Kody Fernandez, began the celebration with the laying of wreaths at the foot of the statue of the late Eugenio Perez at Perez Market site.

Regarded as one of the greatest statesmen from Pangasinan, Perez authored R.A. No. 170 or the “Charter of the City of Dagupan.” It was signed into law on June 20, 1947 by President Manuel Roxas.

Malacanang issued a proclamation declaring June 20, 2018 as a special non-working holiday in Dagupan City.

Sec. Francis Tolentino, Presidential Adviser on Political Affairs represented Presidential Assistant to the President Christopher “Bong” Go as guest of honor.

On the theme, “Balon Dagupan Maaliguas, Itanduro Lawas”, Mayor Belen Fernandez said the celebration provided the opportunity to assess the progress of the city over the years.

“Agew na Dagupan is an opportune time to remember and celebrate our city’s success and progress – especially in the last five years, in social and economic development, investment in infrastructure, education, youth development, livelihood and employment, health care and public safety,” Fernandez said.

“I ask you to join me in yet another progressive journey into the future. Let us strive to grow, be strong and let out all efforts to make Dagupan greater than what our forbearers have imagined for the last 70 years,” she intoned.

Representing the youth and fellow “Manlingkor Ya Kalangweran” officials, Young City Mayor Jalen Kody Fernandez called on Dagupenos to work together in building towards the future.

“We have a vision for Dagupan City, and I believe that that vision has already started to become a reality. This is our home – let’s all make our city a better place to live in,” she said.

Meanwhile, Tolentino lauded the city’s initiative in honoring its history.

“Dagupan is very lucky to have one of the greatest mayors in the country. This is the first time I’ve attended a public ceremony involving the local government that focuses on honoring its history.”

Tolentino presided over the induction of all barangay and Sanggunian Kabataan, while Fernandez presided over the induction of the 2018 MYK officials.

Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Lourdes Servito, together with DepEd officials, unveiled Dagupan history modules designed for Grade 3 and 7 students.

The city also honored Eugenia Fernandez Escosio of Barangay Carael for being the oldest living Dagupeño at 101. Escosio received a cash incentive of P5,000.

Winners of “Palyagan na Arawan”, the quiz contest on trivia about Dagupan, received their prizes: Wyzelle Velasco of St. Albert the Great School, P1,000 for 1st place; Alfred Vergara of St. John’s Cathedral School, P700 for 2nd place; and Samantha Ida Olegario of West Central Elementary School I, P500 for 3rd place. (CIO/VdV)

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