Tarlac Governor Susan Yap, former Vice Governor Emilio Magbag Sr., and Vice Governor Carlitos David leads the ribbon cutting ceremony together with other local government representatives and dignitaries. Photo by Joann Manabat
TARLAC CITY — Dedicated anew to the Tarlaqueños as a symbol of pride and labor of love, the newly renovated Diwa ng Tarlac was officially inaugurated with the unveiling of the marker on Monday as part of the kickoff celebration of the 4th Kanlahi Festival.
The formal blessing and ribbon cutting ceremony was led by Gov. Susan Yap and Vice Gov. Carlitos David together with the municipal mayors and other local government representatives and dignitaries.
The Diwa ng Tarlac is a civic center which will showcase the best of Tarlac and will serve as a venue for cultural activities, trade exhibits, various functions, seminars, and conferences.
According to Yap, the Diwa ng Tarlac is a monument to the pride and of labor of her constituents. No amount from the national government was incurred since its construction in 1982.
“Wala pong pondo na galing sa national government. And until now I respected that so we built it and renovated it muli ng walang pondo galing sa national government,” said Yap. “I hope this will bring pride to our children and Tarlaqueños. This is our identity. Kaya po Kanlahi, Kanlunan ng Lahi.”
In conjunction with the inauguration, the 2019 Seal of Good Local Governance was also awarded along with P1-million grant to each of nine municipalities in recognition of excellent performance in public service. The official plaques and checks were given to the towns of Capas, Gerona, Moncada, Pura, San Clemente, San Jose, Sta. Ignacia, Victoria, and the City of Tarlac.
In the wake of the Covid-19 concerns following the guidelines set by the Department of Tourism through its tactical campaign to boost local tourism, the 4th Kanlahi Festival pushes through with different activities and competitions which will conclude on March 8.
