DAGUPAN CITY, Nov. 13 (PNA)–Owners of homes and business establishments in Dagupan City were enjoined to light their frontage or put even just one lantern therein on or before Dec. 1 in the spirit of the coming city fiesta centering on the theme, “Happy City, Happy Family” which kicks off Dec. 4 till Dec. 30.
The call was made by Councilor Jose Netu Tamayo, named by Mayor Belen Fernandez as “hermano mayor” (executive chair) of this year’s city fiesta whose formal opening on Dec. 4 will be the lst Aliwan Street Dancing Competition along the major streets of the city.
In his recent letter to all city residents, Tamayo called on them to partner with the city government in holding the “Pawil Dagupan” (Homecoming Dagupan) for overseas Dagupenos or even those living in other parts of the Philippines who are being called upon to visit the city of their birth during the city fiesta, which coincides with the yuletide season.
“Pawil Dagupan” is being held yearly as Dagupenos, especially those overseas, longing to go back home to relive the old fiesta and Christmas traditions they used to savor in their younger days.
At the same time, Tamayo made it clear that nothing from the city coffer would be used to fund the city fiesta, saying that this was prohibited by law.
This means that the fiesta will be funded solely from private sponsorships and donations as in two city fiestas already held during the administration of Mayor Fernandez.
The baratillo (street bazars) and food strips, usual feature of the city fiestas, are actually opening on Nov. 16.
The fiesta of Dagupan will celebrate the feast of the city’s patron saint, John the Evangelist, also patron saint of fishermen.(PNA)