LAGAWE, Ifugao– The provincial local government unit (PLGU) is all set for the 51st founding anniversary of the province dubbed as 2017 “Gotad ad Ifugao“ on June 14-18.
“Gotad ad Ifugao” is a celebration primarily for Ifugao’s gaining its independence as a province and an opportunity to showcase Ifugao culture, customs, traditions and practices.
Adopting the theme “Ipaptok Tau’y Ifugao” which means “Let Us Nurture Ifugao,” the activities for the 2017 Grand Gotad Ad Ifugao will start on June 14 until June 18 that will culminate with a province-wide public lunch.
Starting the celebration on June 14 will be the Civic Parade, Opening Program, Opening of the Agro-Industrial Trade Fair, Opening of the Indigenous Culinary Arts Competition, Opening of Photo Exhibits, Opening of Ball Games and an OFW or Balikbayan Program.
On June 15 will be the marathon in G-strings, Ethnic Skills Competition, Demonstration in Bamboo Woodcarving and the Bugan and Wigan Fashion Show displaying Ifugao-inspired creations.
To be featured on June 16 will the Float Parade Contest, Cultural Sports Competition, Opening of Public Services such as the Job Fair, PRC Licensing, Skills Fair, Free Legal Services, Demonstration in “Uggub” and a musical variety show in the evening.
The Trek-a-thon, Mountain Bike Challenge, Performing Arts Competition and Exhibition Games will be held on June 17.
On June18 will be the Grand Cultural Parade, Grand Gotad Program, Amateur Boxing and Martial Arts Showdown and the Closing Program to be highlighted by a public lunch for all.
Meanwhile, Governor Pedro Mayam-o has issued an executive order organizing and designating the event coordinators, chairpersons and co-chairpersons as well as some members of the different working committees of the 2017 Gotad ad Ifugao.
Ifugao was formerly a part of the old Mountain Province. On June 18, 1966, Ifugao finally gained its status as a province with the signing into law of House Bill No. 1526 otherwise known as Republic Act No. 4695 or the Division Law of Mountain Province. **PIA Ifugao
