The University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) and the Miagao local government unit (LGU) further strengthened their ties by holding a series of activities to mark the first day of the Friendship Celebration on August 1, 2023.
Following the Catholic mass held at the Miagao Church, University officials, municipal officials, office heads, and employees of the two groups participated in a caravan which jumpstarted at the said church and traversed Brgy. Mat-y and the UPV campus, leading to the Justice Ramon B. Britanico Hall.
The opening program formally opened this year’s celebration, themed “Kultura kag Duna nga Paranublion, Amligan Ta.”
Vice Chancellor for Administration John Lorenz Belanio, Vice Chancellor for Planning and Development Rhodella Ibabao, and Ms. Sahlee Camposano represented UPV during the ribbon-cutting of the Friendship Celebration.
Meanwhile, Miagao Mayor Richard Garin, Vice Mayor Macario Napulan, SB Member Japhet Grace Moleta, SB Member Gemma Rie Nismal, and SB Member Ceazar Florece represented Miagao LGU.
Chancellor Clement Camposano, in his video message, urged the two groups to “continue to work together to make our beautiful community thrive through good times and even at times of adversity.”
“It is in standing together that we will be able to achieve greater feats and provide much improved services to our constituents,” he added.
Camposano also reminded everyone that celebrating the continued friendship between UPV and the Miagao LGU through the various events “will allow us to not only enjoy each other’s company, but discover various possibilities that we can pursue in the future.”
For his part, Mayor Garin talked about how the celebration will improve the University and LGU’s relationship and togetherness.
He said the presence of those who attended is what made the event memorable and exciting.
Also present during the opening program were the 36 exhibitors for the trade fair. Following the program, the trade fair, which will run for the duration of the celebration, was also opened.
The events slated for the celebration include the launching of the EcoTrail and TrailWalk, Pasipal, launching of the Balay Kalagday (UPV’s Animal Care Program), Bingo Socials, and closing program.
The 11th installment of the celebration is from August 1 – 4, which marks the first time that the event is held week-long instead of just one day only.
