TABUK CITY, Kalinga – To kick-off the 23rd Matagoan Festival and 74th Founding Anniversary, city officials and members of the City Local Government Unit of Tabuk (CLGU) hosted an Ecumenical Thanksgiving Service following the regular flag raising ceremony.
This year’s theme, “Journey to the City of Life,” inspired a service given by priests and pastors from different religious groups, highlighting the arduous journey, Tabukeños’ took to be where they are now guided by God and their love for their place.
In his message, City Mayor Darwin Estrañero said that this year’s celebration is not just a mere passing of time but an occasion for thanksgiving to the Almighty Father and a renewal of the employee’s commitment to public service.
He emphasized that each and every one has the duty to protect and care for Tabuk from any form of evil which may cause its downfall.
Estrañero added that the people should not forget about the past, the sacrifices of the previous generations, and what made Tabuk what it is today.
“As we celebrate the activities over the two weeks of our festival, showcasing our rich cultural traditions and agro-industrial endowments, let us not forget to internalize the essence of our celebration’s theme. This theme reminds us of how our municipality transformed into a City of Life,” he said.
The mayor called upon the community to take the festivities as an opportunity to strengthen their bonds with each other and advance towards a common good, not just for themselves but for the city as well.
“Let us take this occasion as a great opportunity for us to strengthen the lasting bond of solidarity in advancing the common good and welfare of our constituents. May this celebration be paramount in our consideration as public officials and, of course, in our service to the people. I ask for the cooperation of each and every one to make our city more progressive,” he said. By Edward Joseph Gacuya and Redentor Retotal
