LUNA, Apayao – Apayao commemorated its 30th Founding Anniversary with a culmination program that highlights three decades of growth, resilience, and aspirations for the future.
The event was held at the BGVJr. Memorial Sports Center in Luna on February 17, and gathered provincial officials led by Governor Elias C. Bulut, Jr. and Congresswoman Eleanor C. Bulut-Begtang, along with municipal mayors, provincial department heads, national government agencies, residents, and other stakeholders to reflect on the province’s journey since its separation from Kalinga in 1995.
Pudtol Mayor and president of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) President–Apayao Chapter Hector D. Pascua opened the program by honoring the hero and the founder of the province, the late Elias K. Bulut, Sr., who laid the groundwork for the province’s development. The mayor said that the progress was achieved through good governance, and also reminded the yApayaos the need to embrace urbanization and investment while maintaining ecological balance.
5th Infantry Division Philippine Army Commander Major General Gulliver L. Señires served as the guest speaker during the program. In 1995, he was assigned in Conner as a young army officer during the separation of Kalinga and Apayao in 1995. Now, 30 years later, he returned to witness and speak about the province’s transformation, from its early struggles to its current progress.
In his message, he commended the province’s leadership and people for their resilience and progress, and stressed that development is about the tangible improvements in the quality of life for every yApayao. He likewise pledged that the Philippine Army will continue to support peace and socio-economic programs of the provincial government.
Meanwhile, Civil Service Commission–Cordillera Regional Director Fernando Mendoza led the awarding of the Prime–HRM Bronze Award to the provincial government for achieving Prime HRM Level 2 Maturity Indicators and compliance with civil service standards. The Conner District Hospital and Far North Luzon General Hospital and Training Center also received accreditation and recognition.
Board Member Kyle Mariah Chelsea Bulut-Cunan closed the celebration by thanking all contributors and highlighting the event’s role in inspiring the youth, and strengthening bonds among yApayaos. “The 30th year is not just a milestone. It is a reminder that our journey continues toward an even brighter future for Apayao,” she said. By Loremia Pareja
