Pagadian City Celebrates 56th Charter Day with Call for Unity and Sustainable Growth | People’s Press PH

By Sherman Calotes | Philippine People's Press 

Pagadian City, Philippines —A renewed sense of unity and purpose marked Pagadian City’s 56th Charter Day celebration, as thousands of residents joined in the grand festivities that underscored the city’s transformation into a thriving regional hub in the Zamboanga Peninsula.

Bearing the theme “Hugot nga panaghiusa ug ligdong nga pagserbisyo alang sa malungtarong pag-asenso” (Strong unity and honest service for sustainable progress), this year’s celebration highlighted the city’s steady march toward inclusive development and good governance.

The celebration kicked off with a vibrant civic-military parade that brought together government agencies, schools, civil society groups, and private organizations. Crowds lined the streets as contingents proudly marched through Pagadian’s main roads, a testament to the strong community spirit that defines the city.

One of the key moments of the day was the ceremonial distribution of financial assistance under the city’s Gawad Kalinga program, benefiting a total of 513 senior citizens. A total of 453 octogenarians each received ₱2,000, while 60 nonagenarians were granted ₱3,000 an acknowledgment of their enduring contributions to Pagadian’s history and development.

In his keynote address, Mayor Samuel S. Co reflected on the city’s journey from a quiet coastal town to a dynamic urban center, noting that the milestones achieved are fruits of unity and vision.

“Progress is never a one-man job. It is built by the hands and hearts of many. Let us continue what we’ve started sustainable progress that will benefit not just us, but future generations,” he said.

Mayor Co also reiterated his call for support in pushing Pagadian’s bid to become a Highly Urbanized City (HUC), a status officially declared under Proclamation No. 1247. He urged local and provincial leaders to work together in elevating Pagadian’s role as a key player in Mindanao’s growth corridor.

Over the past two decades, Pagadian has seen significant strides in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and tourism. The modernization of the Pagadian Airport—soon to handle night-time and international flights—is expected to unlock more economic opportunities. Meanwhile, landmark projects such as the City Coliseum, Poloyagan Beach Resort, and the upcoming Waterpark aim to boost tourism and local pride.

Also notable are the expansions in public health services and the establishment of educational institutions, all of which serve as pillars for the city’s long-term development plan.

As the city honored its roots and looked to the horizon, this year’s Charter Day served not just as a celebration of the past but a bold statement of Pagadian’s aspirations. With its people united in vision and action, the city stands ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow and embrace its role as a modern, inclusive, and progressive urban center.

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