Malaybalay City, Bukidnon - In commemoration of its 111th founding anniversary, the Province of Bukidnon declared September 1 as a special non-working holiday, “Araw ng Bukidnon.” This year’s celebration carried the theme: “Bukidnon at 111 Years: Empowering Generations, Sustaining Our Legacy.” Festivities included the Socio-Civic Parade, Parade of Colors, and Flag-Raising Ceremony held on September 1, 2025, at the Provincial Capitol Compound, Kaamulan Park, Malaybalay City.
A Parade of Unity and Identity
The parade gathered the 22 Local Government Units (20 municipalities and 2 cities) of Bukidnon, together with various NGOs, government agencies, and departments. Participants marched from Claro M. Recto Street to the Capitol Grounds, proudly wearing official uniforms and ethnic attire that showcased Bukidnon’s diverse cultural heritage.
A Ceremony of Colors and Leadership
The flag ceremony underscored the province’s unity and patriotism. The Philippine Flag was hoisted by PCOL Jovit Lontac Culaway, Provincial Director of Bukidnon Police Provincial Office, and 403rd Brigade Commander BGen Siegfred C. Tubalado. The Bukidnon Provincial Flag was raised by Governor Rogelio “Oneil” Roque and Vice Governor Clive D. Quiño. Each LGU flag was hoisted by the respective mayors, vice mayors, and local PNP chiefs. From Manolo Fortich, the flag was raised by Mayor Rogelio N. Quiño, Vice Mayor Reynaldo Bagayas Jr., and PLTCOL Evary Bacunawa, OIC of Manolo Fortich PNP.
The event was further graced by Sangguniang Bayan members of Manolo Fortich: Coun. Joy Cordovez, Coun. Raquel Abales, Coun. Rina E. Quiño, Coun. Elzevir Dagunlay, IPMR Datu Alex Payangga, and SK Federation President Princess CJ Padin. They were joined by LGU Manolo Fortich Heads of Office and employees led by Municipal Administrator Engr. Joie Caesar M. Gaid.
Governor Roque’s Vision for Bukidnon in his closing remarks,
Governor Rogelio “Oneil” Roque emphasized Bukidnon’s vital role in the nation’s growth, “As part of the country, our province has played an important role in feeding the nation, sustaining industries, and preserving culture and provision. Bukidnon is not just a food basket of Mindanao, we are a vital contributor to national food security and economic stability. But today, as we move forward, we must dream even bigger. We are blessed with the potential to become an agri-industrial powerhouse of world-class products—coffee, pineapple, rubber, sugarcane, vegetables, and livestock—that can compete in global markets.”
A Legacy of Progress and Commitment
Since its creation on September 1, 1914, under Act No. 2408, Bukidnon has overcome challenges and achieved remarkable progress. Today, it stands as a diverse and vibrant province, rooted in culture and driven by development. As one of Bukidnon’s first-class municipalities, Manolo Fortich continues to flourish both economically and environmentally. Guided by Mayor Rogelio N. Quiño’s 10-Point Agenda, the municipality strives for excellence, sustainable development, and people-centered governance. The celebration of Bukidnon’s 111th founding anniversary not only honors its rich history and cultural identity but also strengthens its commitment to future generations, ensuring that its legacy of progress lives on.
Editor
Date Posted: September 03, 2025