Tacloban City — President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Friday, June 29, joined the Taclobanons in celebrating the Sangyaw Festival of Lights 2018, recognizing their resiliency, unity, and hope in the face of adversity.
“It is my pleasure to join all of you in celebrating the Sangyaw Festival of Lights,” Duterte said in his speech at the Balyuan Amphitheater in Tacloban City.
The President commended the outstanding Taclobanons behind the success of the festivities.
He noted that the gathering is the perfect opportunity to showcase the religious heritage of the people and express their devotion to the Santo Niño.
“By preserving and passing on the heritage to the next generation, we not only safeguard our unique identity amidst these changing times but also make development meaningful as we embrace the diversity of our society,” the President said.
“The progress we see today is a testament of the resilience, unity, and hope of the Taclobanons, which have been tried and tested by various challenges faced in the past years,” he added.
At the same time, the Chief Executive expressed confidence that Tacloban City will continue to be a vibrant and thriving local community in their region.
“More than just a display of your exuberance and dynamism, may the Sangyaw Festival of Lights further highlight the unwavering spirit of the Filipinos and inspire everyone to use the lessons of the past as the source of strength and hope as we realize our goals and aspirations of our country,” Duterte said. ### (PND)
