ILIGAN CITY (PIA) — Senator Imee Marcos graced the 74th Adlaw sa Iligan (Charter Day) celebration and shared her legislative measures aimed at boosting the city’s ecotourism and healthcare infrastructure.
Marcos highlighted Senate Bill No. 1983, which proposes the designation of Sitio Timoga in Barangay Buru-un as the Timoga Ecotourism Zone. This bill aims to capitalize on Iligan’s natural beauty and its intermodal access to airports, roads, and ports, making it an ideal location for ecotourism.
“It is time that people discover the beauty and talent of Iliganons. Certainly, there will be more and more opportunities to get together. And I am hopeful that we will work together for all the potential that has been promised during my father’s time when he said that Iligan is going to be one of the growth points in Mindanao,” she said.
She also encouraged the local government unit (LGU) of Iligan to promote ecotourism through tour packages and participation in tourism fairs.
Additionally, Marcos advocated for Senate Bill No. 1611, which calls for the establishment of the Iligan City District Hospital. This initiative underscores her commitment to enhancing healthcare services in the city to ensure residents have access to quality medical care.
Marcos also engaged in a dialogue with barangay chairpersons and youth council leaders to discuss Senate Bill No. 2707, which proposes synchronizing the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections with national and local elections, and Senate Bill No. 2629, which aims to extend the terms of barangay officials to six years.
Meanwhile, Mayor Frederick Siao encouraged residents to commit to working tirelessly toward a shared vision of a prosperous and inclusive Iligan.
“As we celebrate the 74th Adlaw sa Iligan, akong gipangandoy ang isa ka kaugmanaon, diin ang Iligan padayon sa pagtubo sa ekonomiya (I envision a legacy where Iligan continues to grow its economy), foster community connections, uphold environmental stewardship, promote education and innovation, and prioritize health and wellness,” he said.
Siao also announced that the LGU-Iligan will hold an investment roadshow in Manila next month to showcase Iligan’s scenic spots and potential for business ventures, as well as reinforce the city’s commitment to attracting tourists and investors.
Recognition for outstanding Iliganon, employees
Additionally, the Charter Day celebration honored notable Iliganons for their exceptional contributions and achievements. Victoria Gil Echavez Regalado, a magna cum laude graduate of the Bachelor of Science in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering from the United States Coast Guard Academy, received recognition as an Outstanding Iliganon. Regalado’s accomplishment serves as a testament to the talent and potential of Iligan’s citizens to compete globally.
Meanwhile, Wilfredo Tagab, a metro aide in the City General Services Office, was named Model Employee of the Year. With 40 years of dedicated public service, Tagab currently manages the sound system and maintains cleanliness at City Hall. He received a reward of P35,000. His father, Ireneo Tagab, was also a Model Employee in 2000, highlighting a family legacy of excellence in public service.
Other finalists for the Model Employee of the Year were Samuel Burlas, Roldan Capadiso, Belen Joy Patindol, and Eva Tudio, who received P10,000 each.
This annual award recognizes LGU employees who exemplify patriotism, integrity, excellence, and spirituality in their work, alongside the values of flexibility, accountability, sustainability, and transformative action.
This year, 15 employees were shortlisted for the 2024 Model Employee Recognition, showcasing the dedication and hard work of Iligan’s public servants. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
