LAGAWE, Ifugao(PIA) -- As the province celebrated its 55^th founding anniversary on June 18, local leaders called the public to support the government in its fight against the COVID-19 pandemic for a more fruitful “Gotad” celebration in the future.

Governor Jerry Dalipog enjoined leaders and citizens of the province to get vaccinated against COVID-19 in order to help stop  this pandemic. 

“In this way, all Ifugaos could enjoy and feel the real essence of “Gotad” and founding anniversary of the Province in the coming years,” Dalipog said.

Congressman Solomon Changalao also advised Ifugaos to heed the call of the government to get inoculated as vaccination is scientifically and medically tested to be  an important tool   could fast track the road to victory against the dreaded COVID-19.

“Let us celebrate Gotad in heart and mind as we offer ourselves to be part of the national approach against the pandemic and more importantly on nation building. As we face this pandemic that has affected so much of the norms we used to do, let us hold on to our traditional Ifugao values and abide by government directives to help prevent the spread of Covid-19 virus and eventually defeat it soonest,” Chungalao said.

The anniversary activities included the passing of the “Hagabi” from the various municipalities to the capitol, ecumenical mass, tree planting, unveiling of photographs of former governors and vice governors, photo exhibit,  and youth contests.(JDP/MBL-PIA CAR, Ifugao)