Lanao del Sur celebrates 52nd year

MANILA, Philippines - It’s all systems go as Lanao del Sur gears up for numerous civic-cultural activities designed to celebrate the province’s unique diversity even as it bridges differences through various people-oriented programs and local government campaigns.

The series of events will happen tomorrow, June 29, the 52nd day or Araw ng Lanao del Sur. The colorful festivities will be presided by Gov. Mamintal Adiong Jr. Assisting him is First Lady Raifa Adiong, head of the Provincial Tourism Council. The day’s highlight will be an Open House vividly showcasing Maranao arts and crafts, as well as various games.

“I am sure many of our people will have fun competing for big, big prizes. That’s the government’s gift to our hardworking citizens,” says Gov. Adiong. He also adds, “It’s time to come out shining from the negative publicity that unjustly hounds Mindanao. It’s time for a new image for both local and international tourists. As you know, since we began this tradition decades ago, Araw ng Lanao has been a tremendous and joyful success, thanks to the people’s cooperation.

Among the day-long fascinating activities are cultural and indigenous games, street dancing, an automobile show, the Palarong Capitol, a peace caravan, mobile passporting, etc. And, yes, there will also be a film festival featuring the works of Maranao filmmakers. They will vie for the top slot in FDCP’s Peace is... Short Film Competition 2011.