Thousands join 116th Bontoc Foundation Day celebration

Bontoc, Mountain Province – Speaking before a jam-packed audience at the Bontoc Municipal Capitol in celebration of the 116th Bontoc Foundation Day, the Guest of Honor and Speaker highlighted how Bontoc stood as a beacon of growth and development.
Department of Labor And Employment (DOLE) Regional Director Nathaniel Lacambra, who graced the occasion on September 16, 2024, highlighted that the municipality’s situation today is a reflection of the Bontoc people’s commitment to economic progress and sustainable development.
He added that it is also a manifestation of the Bontoc community’s dedication to living up to the event theme “Innovation and Adaptability for a Better and Brighter Bontoc.”
“Innovation and adaptability are indeed very important to the success of a person or an organization. These two characteristics shall go hand in hand. Innovation is a fuel that drives economic growth by introducing new ideas and methods that conform to the requirements of a changing world. On the other hand, adaptability is our willingness to embrace change, our readiness to accept our shortcomings and learn from them, our preparedness to change our attitude and align our goals and strategies to the challenges of this fast-changing world,” RD Lacambra remarked in his message.
Further, RD Lacambra challenged the Bontoc community to reflect on the path they have walked, the challenges that they had, the progress they have achieved and their aspirations.
“Whatever hardships you had, I hope that you will not be discouraged, instead, keep your faith alive. Keep the burning desire in your hearts to overcome your fears and have the strength to keep moving even when things become hard”, he mentioned.
Likewise, Lacambra assured of DOLE’s commitment to support the Bontoc Local Government Unit’s initiative to uplift the lives of the constituents.
RD Lacambra was represented by Atty. Marina Cayabo, the Administrative Chief of DOLE-Regional Office.
Meanwhile, Mountain Province House Representative Maximo Dalog, Jr., in his message, encouraged the Bontoc community to maintain positive cultural characteristics such as the Og-ogfo, which is the best example of distinct culture and mutual assistance.
“When we work together, our unity and collaboration lighten our load and improve our quality of life, particularly during difficult times. Nu ulassilagsak, fumalataku ay makilagsak, nu timponsilikat, wadytaku ay makies-esang ay fumachangisnankakailyan. Chatona ay ukali nan mangipailaisnakinagkhawistako ay Ifontok,” Dalog added.
Bontoc Mayor Jerome” Chagsen” Tudlong, Jr., in his Welcome Address, mentioned that September 16 is considered the Birthday of Bontoc, which birthday is always special to everyone.
He went on to say that in addition to reminding people of their age, it also represents how far they have come.
“The significance of birthdays is a celebration of our existence and a time to reflect on the past year and look forward to the future. As we gather to celebrate the 116th Foundation Day of our beloved town, Bontoc, we are reminded of the significance of birthdays as a time for reflection, gratitude, and renewal. It is a momentous occasion that brings together families, friends, and neighbors to honor our heritage and envision a more innovative and adaptable future,” Tudlong said.
The mayor encouraged everyone to create great good memories of the Bontoc’s twin celebration by taking part in it.
“But while we celebrate, let us take a moment to reflect on our theme for this year’s celebration –”Innovation and Adaptability for a Better and Brighter Bontoc”. As we come together to honor our heritage and envision a more resilient and dynamic Bontoc, let us remember that innovation is not just about progress, but also about preserving what is valuable to us. By working together, we can create a community that thrives on innovation, adapts to challenges, and continues to shine brightly for generations to come. With this, thank you for being part of this journey towards a better and brighter Bontoc,” Tudlong added.
Governor Bonifacio Lacwasan, Jr., in his message delivered by Provincial Administrator Franklin Odsey, extended the felicitations of the Provincial Government of Mountain Province to the Bontoc community for another milestone achieved.
He enumerated the various achievements of the Municipality of Bontoc through the years, including the national accolades received.
Likewise, Tadian Mayor ConstitoMasweng, who is the President of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) – Mountain Province Chapter, represented by his Executive staff joined the various speakers and officials in celebrating with the Bontoc community.
Also in attendance who joined the officials and dignitaries were DOLE Provincial Head George Lubin, Jr., and Mountain Province State University President Edgar Cue.
The 116th Bontoc Foundation Day was attended by thousands of crowd who watched the first-ever Creative Street Dancing and Presentation which was participated in by high schools in the capital town. **ALPINE KILLA-MALWAGA, BONTOC LGU