Pasig marks 449th founding anniversary

The 449th founding anniversary of Pasig City or “Araw ng Pasig” was a day to remember as citizens were treated to various events and activities prepared by the local government on July 2, according to a report by Manila Bulletin.

To open the day’s festivities, a thanksgiving Mass, presided by Bishop of the Diocese of Pasig Rev. Mylo Hubert Vergara was held at 7 a.m. at the Immaculate Concepcion Cathedral.

From 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. the local government organized a mega job fair at the Pasig Sports Complex in partnership with online job sourcing site JobStreet, and the city’s Public Employment Service Office (PESO).

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Around 50 companies, both local and international, presented hundreds of applicants with employment opportunities, with some conducting on-the-spot interviews and even hiring on-the-spot.

Customers at the Pasig Mega Market were treated to a mega sale wherein selected stalls and sections offered freebies and discounts.

Buyers were able to get a P10 discount per kilo of meat, and P20 discount per kilo of fish. Some stalls sold shoes and bags that were 10 percent off. Free eco bags were given in groceries for every P200 purchase.

They also distributed free coffee, ice cream, face masks, and balloons.

At 11 a.m., five prominent Pasigueños were honored as newly constructed school buildings were named after them in a ceremony at the Tanghalang Rizal in Rizal High School.

These buildings and their names include the Luciano P.R. Santiago Building at Dr. Sixto Antonio Elementary School, the Gregorio C. Coching Building at Buting Elementary School, Emiliano R. Caruncho Jr. at Rizal Experimental Station, and Pilot School of Cottage Industries (RESPSCI), the Jovito R. Salonga at Rizal High School, and the Filomeno A. De Leon Building at Pineda Elementary School.

The Local Senior Pension (LSP) was also formally launched and distributed to the first batch of qualified senior citizens at the Landbank in Pasig City Hall.

Seniors aged 65 and above who are unemployed and have no pensions aside from the one given by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will begin receiving P500 per month.

Local officials also visited the distribution of PhilHealth Membership Cards to residents enrolled in the Rizal Technological University (RTU), as well as the free flu vaccination drive for persons with disabilities (PWDs) and senior citizens at the Pasig Mega Parking area.

The main highlight of the day was the State of the City Address (SOCA) held at around 4 p.mm at the Tanghalang Pasigueño.

Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto, Vice Mayor Robert “Dodot” Jaworski Jr., and Congressman Roman Romulo shared the city’s accomplishments over the years and their plans, programs, and projects for the next three years.

To cap off the day’s celebration, Pasig citizens rocked out to bands who graced the stage in a concert held at the city hall quadrangle at 6 p.m. The acts included This Band, Mayonnaise, Ebe Dancel, and Dong Abay.

Prior to July 2, the local government prepared activities as early as Monday, June 27, in anticipation of Araw ng Pasig.

A day before the founding anniversary, members of the local government offices, city youth organizations, and marching bands held a civic parade.

A food festival was opened showcasing the local food and delicacies of the city at the city quadrangle grounds.

A roving exhibit was also set up for public viewing at the Pasig City Hall from June 27 to July 1, at the Manggahan Annex of the Ayala 30th Mall from July 4 to 7, and the Pasig Museum on July 8.

Various LGBTQ groups and allies also held a Pride March on June 27 at 4 p.m. in celebration of Pride Month.

Various youth dance groups joined the inter-barangay dance competition on June 28 and 29, while young whiz kids showcased their skills in the Kabataang Pasighenyo Quiz Bee held on June 30.