KABUGAO, Apayao – The capital town Kabugao marked its 111th Founding Anniversary with a celebration centered around the theme: “Honoring Our Heritage, Strengthening Unity, and Embracing Resilience for a Progressive Community” kicking of the festivity on June 24, at the DSA Gymnasium.
The event was graced by guests including Board Member Kyle Mariah Chelsea Bulut-Cunan, municipal officials led by Mayor Bensmar Ligwang, Vice Mayor Fabulous Tucjang, Barangay Officials, and the dedicated constituents of Kabugao.
In her address, Bulut-Cunan expressed heartfelt gratitude to the leaders of the municipality throughout its history, as well as to the present-day civil servants for their commitment to delivering government programs and services. She also acknowledged the support of partner line agencies, the private sector, and the community at large, emphasizing their collective role in shaping Kabugao into a sustainable and progressive hub over the past 111 years.
“You are the heart of Kabugao, the soul and the mind which function as one for a sustainable culture and progressive community. For 111 years you’ve been the heart, the soul and the mind that work together in shaping our municipality and our province,” she said.
“Let us become one in all the things that we dream of for the development our municipality and our province. Together if we have unity, we widen our horizons we widen our prospectives and we appreciate the figure in a bigger picture” she added.
Moreover, Mayor Ligwang echoed these sentiments, recognizing the collective effort required to drive the town’s development forward. He urged continued support from all constituents, highlighting the importance of unity in achieving their shared vision of a fully developed Kabugao where no one is left behind.
“I urge all of you to support the local government effort to provide excellent public service for our people. We could only reach the potentials and implement all plans and program of the government effectively if the constituents will always support us. Come join us and let us be one to achieve this vision, a fully developed Kabugao where no one should be left behind” he stated.
Likewise, Vice Mayor Tucjang expressed gratitude for the community’s resilience in the face of challenges, emphasizing the significance of cultural celebrations in preserving heritage and fostering community bonds. He underscored the role of unity in propelling Kabugao towards progress, noting that collective strength lies in coming together despite differences.
Vice Mayor Fabulous Tucjang expressed his gratitude for the community’s perseverance despite their challenges “as we gathered to celebrate let us reflect on how these festivities help sustain our culture. They are opportunities to pass down our customs and stories to younger generations.” He also emphasizes that ensuring their heritage remain vibrant and alive by engaging in these celebrations strengthen their bonds and reaffirm their identity as a community.
“Unity is a cornerstone of a progressive community. Our festivities bring us together and transcending differences and fostering sense of belonging, in unity we find strength” he concluded.
As part of the festivities, Kabugao launched an Agro-Industrial Trade and Tourism Fair, showcasing local products and talents. The three-day event will feature a cultural night, live band performances, a service caravan, a mass wedding ceremony, tree planting activities, the “panag-aangrad,” and the highly anticipated Search for Miss Kabugao. By Krizza Joy Castillo