Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog encouraged city residents to support the 80th Charter Day celebration, which launches on Monday, July 17, at City Hall.

Celebrations begin with a 7:00 a.m. mass at the San Jose Placer Parish Church, followed by a parade around Plaza Libertad.

“We have seen what Iloilo City is today compared to what it was before,” said the mayor. “Whatever it takes, as long as you are an Ilonggo, there is always unity among us.”

“We have seen the recent development and growth in the city especially on infrastructure,” he added. “We are hoping to position ourselves to be a local government unit that is globally competitive.”

The highlight of the event, the Charter Day Ball, takes place on August 24; while a carousel-type streetdance parade competition takes place on the final day, August 25, in the downtown area./WDJ