Navotas turns 96 today

Navotas will mark its 96th anniversary with a week-long celebration starting today. Among the events lined up are a trade fair, a beauty pageant and a fun-run, according to Navotas Mayor Toby Tiangco.

The theme for this year’s celebration is "Navotas . . . sama-sama sa pagtulong ngayon at pagdating ng panahon."

Navotas was part of Malabon until it was declared an independent municipality in Jan. 16, 1906. Today, it is a bustling seaside town of close to 250,000 residents.

An ecumenical service at the municipal grounds kicks off the festivities today. A trade and jobs fair will offer Navotenos a chance to look for livelihood opportunities.

Municipal officials headed by Tiangco will be at the forefront of a motorcade around town in the afternoon. On Friday, Navotas schoolchildren showcase their artistic skills in a mural painting and canvas contest at the Bagong Bayan Elementary School.