LAGAWE, Ifugao– The provincial government is all set for the 52nd founding anniversary of the province dubbed as 2018 Gotad ad Ifugao from June 15 to 22.
Gotad ad Ifugao celebrates Ifugao’s gaining of independence as a province. It is also an opportunity to showcase Ifugao culture and the traditions and practices of its indigenous people.
With the theme “Shaping the Ifugao Heritage in a Global Environment”, the week-long celebration will start with a trek-a-thon and mountain biking. There will also be Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) licensing and a thanksgiving mass.
On June 18, activities include a cultural parade contest, opening program, opening of the Agro-Industrial Trade Fair, indigenous culinary arts competition, photo exhibits, ball games, and launching of the “Algon di Nunbaat” and OFW booth.
A marathon in G-strings, achievers’ awards, ethnic skills competition, cultural competition, ecumenical service and search for Bugan and Wigan pre-pageant night will be held on June 19.
To be featured on June 20 are the float parade contest, cultural sports competition, public services such as job fair, skills fair, and free legal services and musical theater contest in the evening.
The civic parade, performing arts, cuisine contest, boxing and the search for Bugan and Wigan coronation night will be on June 21. Gotad ad Ifugao will end with the awarding and closing program on June 22.
Ifugao was formerly a part of the old Mountain Province. On June 18, 1966, Ifugao gained status as a province with the signing into law of House Bill 1526, now Republic Act 4695 or the Division Law of Mountain Province. **By Marcelo B. Lihgawon
