Celebrating the Centennial in Aparri

Celebrating the Centennial in Aparri

Philippine Daily Inquirer
Saturday, May 30, 1998

NOW that the May elections are over and that Vice President Joseph Estrada is the winner in the presidential race, it is high time that we focus on the forthcoming Centennial celebration.

Please alow me to share with you and my fellow readers what we are doing here in Aparri to prepare for this historical occasion.

Every Monday since March all employees of the government agencies in their Filipiniana attire participate in flag-raising ceremonies at the Aparri public park. Each agency leads in the singing of the national anthem as well as in reciting of the "Panunumpa sa Watawat." Then a cultural number is shown by the lead agency and topics about freedom, independence and love of country are shared by the head of the agency concerned.

Every Monday, too, government workers are encouraged to speak Filipino in their offices as they conduct their official business or transactions.

In various government offices are Centennial corners depicting symbols of Filipino freedom and independence.

In grocery and department stores, hardware and restaurants, beauty parlors, owners and proprietors have encouraged to tag their goods and services worth P100 with a "Centennial price."

At the park is a billboard showing the countdown of the Centennial replicas of the flags of the Katipuneros and quotations to stir feelings of nationalism.

Philiipine flags are displayed in all business establishments, government and private offices, households, jeepneys, government and private cars, and tricycles.

On the night of June 11, we will have a cultural program at the public gymnasium showcasing Filipino dances and songs.

On June 12, it will be a red-letter day for all of us Aparrianos. In the morning, we shall have the longest parade the town has ever seen. All public and private offices, NGOs, civic and religious organizations, schools and others will join in the parade. Participants, in their Filipiniana attire, will hold small flags.

After the parade, a short program will follow at the gymnasium. More than 20 floats displaying our national heroes and heroines to be modelled by chosen government employees will be the highlight of the parade. Also included among the morning activities on June 12 are the well known fluvial parade of Aparri and Filipino games for our children like palo sebo, sack race and bunong braso.

On the night of June 12, the Ms Centennial will be selected and crowned from among the representatives of 42 barangays. Prizes will also be given to our centenarians.

These are just but a few of the many activities we have lined up in Aparri as we celebrate 100 years of independence.


REGINALD B. TAMAYO
Municipal Councilor
Aparri, Cagayan