DIPOLOG CITY – Vice President and Department of Education Secretary Sara Duterte praised the week-long celebration of Hudyaka-Zanorte during her visit to the 71st founding anniversary of the province.
According to Duterte, the holding of the activity is a sign that the province is continuing to develop.
“The narrative on your unceasing socio-economic advancement is a clear manifestation of your collective success over the years. Nalipay ko og dako nga nakita nga pagkahuman sa pandemya naa na ta dinhi, nagtapok-tapok aron paniguradohon ang panaghiusa sa inyohang probinsya ug ang malinawon nga pagpamuyo ninyo dinhi,” Duterte said.
(I am very happy that after the pandemic, we were able to see each other already and gather, to ensure unity in your province and so that you can live here safely)
Governor Rosalina Jalosjos was also thankful for the success of the Hudyaka Festival, which she said shows the province’s rich culture and unity.
“Over the past few days the Hudyaka Festival has captivated our hearts and minds as we showcase the best of our province. This festival has served as a platform for us to celebrate our diversity and lasting connections with one another. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to every individual, organization and community who dedicated the time, energy and passion to this festival,” Jalosjos said.
The Department of Tourism has previously recognized the Hudyaka Festival as one of the big festivals celebrated in the country every year.
The celebration has helped provide an opportunity to identify not only the different products, but also to identify various tourism sites in every place.
“And since it has begun in 2005 with the various activities that we have witnessed ranging from cultural, agriculture, to sports, entertainment among others. The festival has proven that it is indeed the most anticipated festival in the province which definitely showcases the rich culture and heritage of Zamboanga del Norte,” DOT Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar said.
Liza Mejias, La Libertad mayor, said that she was grateful for the celebration.
“Dako kaayo ko’g pasalamat kay tungod sa ani nga affair naa gyo’y nakuha nga dakong ganti ang La Libertad. Dili lang kana og naila pud ang La Libertad tungod sa among kadaugan (I am very grateful because of this affair, La Libertad got a big reward. Not only that but La Libertad is also known because of our victory),” she said.
Godod town won the best agri-tourism booth in the third district, Siayan won best agri-tourism booth in the second district, while the town of La Libertad won the best agri-tourism booth in the first district and was the overall champion.
