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Wednesday, January 20, 2016

De Lima graces Pagadian City’s street dancing competition; impressed by the performances
By Gideon C. Corgue

PAGADIAN CITY, Jan. 19 (PIA) – Former DOJ Secretary Leila M. de Lima on Sunday thanked the city government for inviting her to witness the colorful street dancing competition— Pagadian City’s own version of Sinulog Festival.

De Lima, the event’s keynote speaker was impressed with the artistry, creativity and level of performance of the eight contingents from public secondary schools in the city during the ritual showdown held at Plaza Luz on January 17.

The contingents wowed thousands of spectators with their colorful costumes and electrifying dance performances during the six-hour street dance competition that capped the annual “Pasalamat Festival.”
 
De Lima in her message said on the same day, she witnessed the same event in Cebu City – the Sinulog Festival upon the invitation of Cebu Governor Hilario Davide as one of the guests but she skipped the event saying that it will be a whole day activity.

“Galing lang po ako sa Cebu kaninang umaga at pinanood ko rin po ang Sinulog Festival na experience ko for the first time. Iniimbita po ako ng governor ng Cebu pero hindi pa natapos ang okasyon umalis na ako at lumipad papunta rito sa Pagadian dahil hindi ko gusto ma-miss ang affair na ito.” De Lima explained.

De Lima said she was happy that after several years, she was able to visit Pagadian.

“Today is my second time to visit your place and I have noticed infrastructure developments. No wonder, Pagadian earned the monicker “Little Hongkong of the South,” she added.

De Lima said Pagadian is the center of different religions and culture in Mindanao because of its geographical location. “Indeed, your city recognizes the importance of unity and harmony of all Filipinos,” she added.

“In the feast of your patron saint, Señor Sto. Nino it will help you remember that the Holy Child played an important role in our lives. He serves as a symbol of love and peace,” De Lima said adding that despite the different cultures and beliefs, there is a peaceful co-existence and unity of the residents.


“As you celebrate the fiesta, I wish that peace, love and unity will continue to dwell in your hearts,” she concluded.