As part of the 88th Dia de Zamboanga celebration, the City Government, through the City Tourism Office and in collaboration with the Universidad de Zamboanga-Center of Local History and Culture (UZ-CLHC), launched the cultural exhibit “Zamboanga Encounters: Where Lands and Sea Meet” at the National Museum, Fort Pilar, on February 28, 2025. The exhibit, curated by Dr. Felice Noelle Rodriguez, Director of UZ-CLHC, highlights Zamboanga City’s rich history, vibrant culture, and artistic heritage. It will run for a year, concluding on February 28, 2026.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was graced by Rodriguez, former Mayors Manny Dalipe and Ma. Isabelle “Beng” Climaco-Salazar, City Tourism Officer Sarita Sebastian, UZ President Abram Eustaquio, and distinguished guests from the National Museum of the Philippines, the Philippine Map Collectors Society, academic institutions, and partner agencies. Rodriguez personally guided visitors through the exhibit, offering insights into the significance of the displayed maps, historical images, and artworks.
Mayor John Dalipe, represented by Sebastian, delivered a speech expressing gratitude to all who contributed to the exhibit, emphasizing its role in preserving Zamboanga’s cultural heritage. The initiative is a collaborative effort between UZ-CLHC, the National Museum of the Philippines, and other key institutions, further solidifying Zamboanga’s commitment to heritage conservation.
In line with the same festivities, the City Tourism Office also launched the first-ever “Concurso de Recuerdo Turismo” on February 25, 2025, at the Garden Orchid Hotel. This tourism souvenir competition served as a platform to highlight the artistic talents of Zamboangueños while promoting the city’s unique cultural identity.
The contest featured two categories: Eco-Friendly and Innovative Design. Tourism Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar, who served as keynote speaker during the awarding ceremony, commended the city government for initiating a competition that fosters creativity while promoting sustainable and innovative tourism products.
Abubakar, together with City Tourism Officer Sarita Sebastian and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Provincial Director Grace Aduca, led the awarding ceremony. The winners received cash prizes and plaques for their outstanding designs:
Eco-Friendly Category:
- 1st Place: Sandra Jamiro (P10,000)
- 2nd Place: Margarette Hernando (P7,000)
- 3rd Place: Saudia S. Danih (P5,000)
Innovative Design Category:
- 1st Place: Einar A. Palma (P10,000)
- 2nd Place: Sandra Jamiro (P7,000)
- 3rd Place: Einar A. Palma (P5,000)
Non-winning participants were also recognized with a participation incentive of P3,000.
Both the exhibit and the souvenir competition underscore Zamboanga City’s continuous efforts to celebrate and preserve its cultural heritage, ensuring that the traditions, artistry, and identity of its people remain vibrant for future generations.
