FIESTAS
The city of Biñan, Laguna is throbbing with life. Recent events clearly showed this. In a very eventful weekend, residents celebrated multiple milestones: the 14th anniversary of its cityhood on February 2nd, the 79th anniversary of its Liberation Day on February 3rd, and the 277th anniversary of its Foundation Commemoration on February 4th. All these milestones were behind the very grand ‘Araw ng Biñan 2024’.
Traditional Fiestas
For nearly ten years now, the city's government has kicked off these celebrations with a Grand People’s Parade, setting the tone for a series of events that bring the community together. Following the parade, the inauguration of a notable landmark project traditionally takes place. These projects have ranged from the opening of the Historic Alberto Mansion to the rejuvenation of Plaza Rizal, showcasing the city's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while fostering community pride.
This year, the celebrations include an exciting development as the local government unit (LGU) introduces the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) - Biñan’s College of Information Technology and Engineering. This significant addition to the LGU-subsidized university is part of its ongoing efforts to expand educational opportunities for its residents. The new campus is located on what was once the site of the AMA Computer College, along the National Highway in Barangay Canlalay, signifying a step forward in the city's educational infrastructure.
At the helm of the Araw ng Binan 2024 celebrations are Biñan City Mayor Atty. Walfredo Dimaguila Jr., alongside Biñan District Rep. Marlyn Naguiat, Vice Mayor Angelo Alonte, Councilor Jonalina Reyes, and officials from the PUP - Biñan Campus, including Dr. Margarita Sevilla. Mayor Dimaguila Jr. emphasized the city's focus on education, stating, “Biñan is consistently being benchmarked by other local government units. Isa lang naman ang aking laging sinasabi kapag may nagbe-benchmark sa Biñan: kailangan ng common-sense administration. Unang una, magtipid. Mag-adjust nang konti para sa mga kabataan, magtanong at makinig.”
The city's dedication to enhancing education doesn't stop with the new college campus. It extends to the construction of hundreds of classrooms for public elementary, secondary, and senior high schools, as well as the provision of solar power systems and free Intranet Learning Management System routers for students. These initiatives reflect a broader commitment to supporting the educational needs of its youth and preparing them for future challenges.
Biñan's efforts in governance and community development have not gone unnoticed. The city has been a consistent recipient of the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) and the Best Tourism-oriented LGU Award, among other accolades. These recognitions highlight the city's achievements in providing effective local governance and fostering a tourism-friendly environment.
The celebratory weekend is packed with activities designed to entertain and engage both residents and visitors. Highlights include a free film showing of GomBurZa at the Southwoods Mall Cinemas, the Biñan Folk Dance Festival, an evening concert, and the groundbreaking of Dalampasigan Park along Laguna Lake. Additionally, the Biñan National Choral Festival promises to be a showcase of musical talent, drawing choirs from across the nation to participate in this festive occasion.
As Biñan commemorates these significant dates, the events planned for the weekend reflect the city's rich cultural heritage, its commitment to education and community development, and its aspirations for the future. Through these celebrations, Biñan demonstrates its resilience and its capacity to bring people together, highlighting the strength and spirit of its community.
