The 72nd Founding Anniversary of the province of Zamboanga Del Norte
Showcasing its rich history, cultural diversity and agricultural bounty, the province of Zamboanga del Norte successfully commemorated its 72nd Founding Anniversary highlighted by the celebration of the traditional Hudyaka Zanorte Festival.
A total of 14 local government units participated in the nine-day celebration that showcased the province’s commerce and travel items through the Agri Tourism Booth Fair, the culture and customs of different towns, as well as a glimpse of their local festivals.
Held from May 29 to June 6, the Festival also featured an array of sporting events such as chess, badminton, motocross, drag race, volleyball, half-marathon, football, practical shooting, darts, mountain bike, and mixed martial arts. The activity was a big boost to the province’s economy and tourism industry, said Zamboanga del Norte Gov. Rosalina “Nanay Nene” Jalosjos.
Governor Jalosjos emphasized that the Festival is not just about cultural extravaganza, it is the province’s way of thanksgiving, a sign of gratitude for Zamboanga del Norte’s agricultural success and bountiful harvest despite the El Niño phenomenon that affected the lives of millions of Filipinos.
“It is our people’s way of thanking the Lord for their current situation. ‘Hudyaka’ means to rejoice for what we have been given by God or blessed by God. That’s what hudyaka means,” said Jalosjos.
Jalosjos said that while most farmers across the country were severely affected by the drought and intense heat, the province was spared as it was blessed with occasional rains that enabled its farmers to sustain its livelihood. “We didn’t have severe damage here. In other places, the heat was extreme. Here, we have occasional rains. God really helped us so that we will not be affected by the drought. Our farmers were able to plant. We have enough supply of rice. That’s why we have to enjoy, we have to rejoice in God’s blessings that were given to us,” said Jalosjos.
With the success of this year’s Hudyaka Festival, Jalosjos assured the people of Zamboanga de Norte of a grander festival next year. “We will make it bigger and even better next year,” the Governor said.
Despite the successful celebration of the Festival, maintaining police visibility remains crucial even after the festivities. Post-event, the continued police presence helps in ensuring the safety of attendees when they disperse from the venue and return home. Their presence is particularly important in preventing incidents such as post-event disturbances or traffic accidents as crowds disperse.
Police Colonel Rainier Diaza, Officer-in-Charge, Zamboanga Del Norte Police Provincial Office (ZNPPO) dedicated himself and his team to ensuring the safety of the people during the celebrations. His leadership and commitment to duty were evident as he coordinated the deployment of officers to strategic points, ensuring thorough security coverage throughout the event. With meticulous planning and coordination, ZNPPO ensured that every aspect of security, from crowd control to emergency response preparedness, was handled effectively.
Continuous police visibility contributes to the overall security of the community beyond the festival grounds. It reinforces the message that law enforcement is committed to maintaining public safety on a daily basis, not just during special events. This kind of visibility helps deter criminals in their nefarious activities and promotes a sense of security among residents and visitors alike.
Also, police visibility allows for proactive engagement with the community in addressing any concern or issue that may arise before, during and even in the aftermath of the Festival. It provides an opportunity for officers to gather feedback, address feedbacks or suggestions, and ensure that any lingering issue related to the Festival are promptly addressed.
The successful commemoration of the Hudyaka Zanorte Festival stands as a notable achievement. However, the perpetuation of consistent police presence remains imperative not only to uphold safety but also to cultivate community confidence and preserve public order beyond the confines of the festivities.
