CONNER, Apayao – The municipality celebrated its 61st founding anniversary with the theme “Honoring our Historical and Cultural Identity: Towards Sustainable Development” on June 25 at the LGU Conner Compound.
The celebration commenced with a motorcade from Barangay Guinaang to Caglayan, featuring representatives from various agencies and authorities. A Thanksgiving Mass, presided over by the Most Rev. Prudencio P. Andaya, followed the motorcade.
Highlighting the occasion was the inauguration of the new Municipal Hall, initiated during the tenure of former Mayor Martina W. Dangoy and completed under current Mayor Atty. Jorico F. Bayaua. The unveiling ceremony was attended by Governor Hon. Elias C. Bulut, Jr. along with Conner municipal officials, past and present, department heads, and community members.
In his message, Gov. Bulut highlighted the ongoing infrastructure advancements in Conner, focusing notably on the completion of road-opening projects that now interconnect every barangay, significantly enhancing local accessibility. He emphasized the need to safeguard natural resources and champion environmental sustainability, underscoring their important role in securing a prosperous future for generations to come.
The festivities featured cultural performances by the Kalinga, Isneg-Barren, Isnag-Nabuangan, and Malaueg tribes, with the latter represented by visitors from Rizal, Cagayan, led by Mayor Atty. Joel A. Ruma.
Additionally, the provincial office of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, together with Gov. Bulut, Mayor Bayaua, and Vice Mayor Aswigue, distributed starter toolkits to graduates of vocational courses. The municipal government also recognized Conner athletes for their achievements in various sports.
Vice Mayor Alexander Aswigue concluded the event with a message of gratitude to all attendees, marking a memorable celebration of Conner’s rich cultural heritage and progress towards a sustainable future. By Michelle Acantilado