Mandaue to mark 44th Charter Day on Aug. 28

CEBU, Philippines - The Mandaue City government has asked President Benigno Aquino III to declare Aug. 30 a special non-working holiday for the city’s 44th Charter Day celebration.

The city council approved last July 11 a resolution which urges the President to declare August 30 as a non-working holiday to enable city employees to join the celebration.

Cultural presentations and food festivals are lined up for the month-long celebration, which starts on August 8.

City councilor Diosdado Suico, chairman of the 44th Charter Day celebration executive committee said the city has set aside P5 million for the merriment.

City Tourism Officer Louella Cabañero said several cultural performances will be held at night in which performers will be employees of the city hall, different public schools in the city, and barangays.

Food festivals and a trade fair will be held at the Mandaue Heritage Plaza from Aug. 23 to Aug. 25.

Since the Charter Day celebration coincides with the “Mandaue Business Month” of the Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), the launching of the Mandaue Bridge Park, located under the Marcelo Fernan Brdige, will be a joint effort between MCCI and the city government.

MCCI president Philip Tan said the business sector has been considered an important partner by the city government.

The theme for this year’s Business Month is, “Engaging Change: Be Fit. Be Connected. Be Ahead.”

Other activities for this year’s Business Month include the MCCI Business Summit on Aug. 16 and a surgical and dental mission on Aug. 24.  (FREEMAN)