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Cruz said the presence of people from various sectors in the program this morning and the parade of floats in the afternoon “is an expression of unity which is vital for development and progress. We hope that we will be able to forge unity as we will work to reduce poverty incidence and improve our social services.”
The city government expected reelected Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan as its guest speaker but the president of Lafarge Group Company and Iligan Cement Corporation graced the occasion instead.
Cruz explained that the company donated a parcel of land for Gawad Kalinga’s housing projects.
Professor Geoffrey Salgado, history teacher of Mindanao State University-IIT shared the history of Iligan city and its ups and downs the past 57 years. He reckoned the times when the city became industrialized but later succumbed to economic depression resulting to closure of several firms. Iligan City used to pride itself as the “Industrial City of the South.”
Today, the city government also recognized and awarded the “Best Iliganons” who garnered national prominence based on their contributions as social workers, businessmen, sports enthusiast and the like. Fifty seven top taxpayers of the city were also recognized for their help in alleviating the city’s economic conditions.
All of them were awarded with plaques made of bamboo.
The celebration also highlighted choral songs and folk dances.
A basketball tournament was also held as well as a trade fair.
At the city plaza this morning, photos of Iligan’s past were featured in an exhibit. AMogn the photographs featured were Iligan’s officials, lifestyle, resources, the majestic Maria Cristina Falls and Mandulog bridge. (Violeta M. Gloria/MindaNews)