Published on: October 17, 2023 | Written by: Beatriz Faye G. Carreon

Isabela City, Basilan – The Department of the Interior and Local Government IX and the City Government of Isabela came together to launch the festivities for the 32nd Local Government Month with an exhilarating motorcade and a grand Kick-Off Ceremony. This occasion signified a notable achievement, as it honored the 32-year legacy of the Local Government Code of 1991, a crucial piece of legislation in the realm of local governance. 

The celebration took place last October 10, 2023 at the Kasinnahan Hotel & Resort in Isabela City and was graced by the presence of DILG IX key functionaries, city officials, national government agencies, and community leaders. This event not only highlighted the city’s diverse offerings but also marked the official commencement of a month-long celebration centered around the theme “LGUs of the Future: Shaping Sustainable and Innovative Local Government Units of Tomorrow.”

Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, alongside Vice Mayor Kifli Salliman, city councilors, and department heads, extended a warm welcome to the delegation. During her opening speech, Mayor Turabin-Hataman expressed her enthusiasm to be part of this celebration and recognized that hosting such large-scale events for the entire Zamboanga Peninsula was a rare and exceptional opportunity for Isabela City. She conveyed deep appreciation for the presence of local governance in the community, highlighting its positive impact on outlying communities. Furthermore, she emphasized the importance of integrating the city’s achievements into the narrative of effective local governance. 

During his keynote address, DILG IX Regional Director Paisal O. Abutazil, CESO III articulated that Isabela City was selected as the event’s location to underscore Isabela City’s significant contributions to Zamboanga Peninsula. He also emphasized that the month-long celebration presented a chance to reaffirm the core principles that have been guiding them since the inception of the Local Government Code. RD Abutazil stressed the importance of their commitment to public service, transparency promotion, and accountability assurance. 

During the event, there was a segment that showcased Isabela City’s achievements and included a video message from Marlo L. Iringan, the Undersecretary for Local Government at DILG. Concluding the event, Moh. Taha S. Arakama, the Provincial Director of DILG – Zamboanga del Sur, commended Mayor Turabin-Hataman for the remarkable progress in the city and recognized Isabela City’s crucial role in advancing the development of Zamboanga Peninsula. 

The event closed with a glimpse of the upcoming highlights of the 32nd Local Government Month, set to take place from October 23 to 25, 2023 in Zamboanga City. 

In conjunction with the festivities, Mayor Turabin-Hataman presided over the ceremonial opening of the environmentally conscious CDRRM Green Building of Isabela City. This significant step underscores the city’s dedication to advancing sustainable development and fostering innovation within local governance. 

The partnership between DILG IX and the City Government of Isabela for this significant occasion highlights the significance of efficient local governance and its influence on communities. It also marks the beginning of a month filled with activities that celebrate the pivotal role of local governments in shaping the future of our local communities.