MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA) -- The provincial government here opened the celebration for the 64th Araw ng Lanao del Sur with a Pagana Maranao, Tuesday, July 4.

Local chief executives from the various municipalities in the province, department heads of the provincial government, heads and representatives of line agencies and security sector in the provinces, civil society organizations, and media joined the colorful opening held at the Provincial Capitol Gym with the theme "Stronger Together: Honoring Lanao del Sur's Resilience and Unity."

Provincial Governor Mamintal Alonto Adiong Jr. said the celebration is a time to reflect on the past and revisit the ideals that led to the formation of Lanao.

"Today more than ever, we shall feel a sense of pride and awareness of what and who we are, most especially for overcoming the most challenging knowledge of our recent history," he said.

Lanao del Sur First District Representative Ziaur-Rahman Alonto Adiong also reminisced how the province overcame the hurdles and the challenges it encountered such as the Marawi siege and the Covid-19 pandemic and how the province underwent transformation.

He also emphasized that the progress and achievements of Lanao del Sur over the past 64 years reflect the firm commitment of every citizen of the province to building a better future not only in Lanao del Sur but for the entire country as well.

To make the opening ceremony merrier, the provincial government gave away raffle prizes consisting of branded kitchen appliances, 55 to 65-inch TV sets, split-type air conditioners, high-end laptops, ipads/tablets, mobile phones, and brand new motorcycles to the attendees. Eight local chief executives, selected thru a raffle draw, were also awarded special projects including the construction of a training center in their respective municipalities. (JND/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)