BALER, Aurora (PIA) — The spirit of unity and public service that defines the Province of Aurora continues to draw strength from the legacy of its namesake, Aurora Aragon-Quezon.
House Speaker Faustino Dy III emphasized this as he led the wreath-laying ceremony marking the former First Lady’s 138th birth anniversary and the province’s 47th founding anniversary.
In his message, the House leader cited Aragon-Quezon’s lifelong humanitarian work as a model of civic duty that continues to influence community values.
Aragon-Quezon served as First Lady of the Philippines from 1935 to 1944 and later became the first chairperson of the Philippine National Red Cross.
She was killed in 1949 while traveling to Baler to inaugurate a hospital, and the province was subsequently named in her honor.
Dy said her example calls on leaders to uphold compassion and accountability in serving communities.
He assured that congressional support will continue for programs that expand welfare services and sustain development initiatives in Aurora.
Meanwhile, Akbayan Partylist Representative Jose Manuel Diokno called on residents to uphold humility, service, and concern for others as enduring lessons from Aragon-Quezon.
He said the Pasidayaw Festival reflects Aurora’s character of sharing and pride in its heritage, showing a people who value both generosity and dignity.
Likewise, Governor Isidro Galban said the province strengthens its future by preserving culture and arts that drive tourism and local enterprise.
Galban said sustained investment in tourism creates jobs and helps ensure that families across Aurora have stable sources of income and food on their tables.
He urged residents to continue drawing inspiration from history as the province advances with renewed confidence.
This year’s celebration carried the theme “Sigla at Galak sa Kultura at Turismo,” highlighting the role of culture and tourism in shaping Aurora’s development direction.
The commemoration underscored how leadership, cultural pride, and sustained public service remain central to the province’s continuing growth (CLJD/MAT, PIA Region 3-Aurora)
