The historic and touristic province of Bataan recently celebrated its 268th foundation anniversary with a vibrant lineup of activities in the capital city of Balanga.
Themed “Selebrasyon ng Matatag na Pamilyang Bataeño,” the daylong observance kicked off with the History Symposium and the Kasayahan sa Kapitolyo which featured games, cultural performances, trade booths of local entrepreneurs, a Kundiman Contest and entertainment numbers.
An event highlight is the Celebration Parade which featured marching bands and delegations from various local government units, civil society groups, uniformed service, and delegations from the private sector and tourism stakeholders.
The parade commenced from the St. Joseph Cathedral and Plaza Mayor to the People’s Center at the Provincial Capitol Complex.
Bataan was established as an independent province on January 11, 1757 by Spanish Governor-General Pedro Manuel Arandia from territories belonging to Pampanga and the Corregimiento of Mariveles which included Maragondon, Cavite.
The parade concluded with the State of the Province Address by governor Joet Garcia where he presented Bataan’s accomplishments and plans which include the adoption of renewable energy (RE) in power generation and environment-friendly intra-province public transportation.
Leading the contingent of tourism stakeholders at the Freeport Area of Bataan is The Oriental Hotel, the hospitality arm of the Manila-based LKY Group of Companies.
An advocate of cultural, adventure and heritage tourism in the province, the boutique business hotel brought a historical reenactor dressed as a World War 2 Filipino soldier who defended Bataan from Japanese troops
As part of its corporate social responsibility, the property embarks on food security, sustainable practices, children’s welfare, and heritage promotion initiatives to benefit communities in Mariveles.
Among the province’s milestones in 2024 includes its 7th Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) and various citations from the Bureau of Local Governance Finance and the Department of Trade and Industry, among others.
The celebration culminated with the Night of Music, Triumph, and Celebration featuring home-grown musical talents and the country’s top pop artists.
