It’s all systems go for the 51st Founding Anniversary of Basilan Province and the Tennun Pakaradjaan Festival 2025, set to unfold from March 1 to March 7. This year’s celebration carries the theme, “Celebrating Success within the Spirit of Ramadhan; Charting A New Journey Towards a Progressive Basilan.”
Under the leadership of Governor Jim Salliman, the Provincial Government has prepared a week-long lineup of activities that align with the observance of the holy month of Ramadhan. The festivities aim to highlight the province’s progress and unity while respecting the solemnity of the religious period.
A Grand Opening Salvo
The celebration will commence with an Opening Salvo at the Provincial Capitol grounds, featuring the ceremonial switch-on of the Ramadhan Festive Lights, the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Pag-Tennun Display, and a spectacular fireworks display. These events will symbolize both the illuminating progress of Basilan and the rich cultural heritage of its people.
Engaging Activities for the Community
Throughout the week, various activities will cater to different sectors of the community:
- March 2: A Shore Casting Fishing Tournament will be held, showcasing the province’s rich marine resources and the skills of local fishermen.
- March 3: A dedicated Farmers and Fisherfolks Day will feature the distribution of seedlings and traditional bancas to aid the agricultural and fishing communities. Additionally, a Senior High School Essay Writing Contest will provide a platform for young Basileños to express their thoughts on the province’s journey. A medical mission will also take place in Lamitan City and Sumisip Municipality to extend healthcare services to residents.
- March 3: The Qur’an Memorization and Recitation Challenge will encourage spiritual enrichment among participants. The awarding of Zero Open Defecation recognition will also take place, emphasizing the province’s commitment to health and sanitation. The day will conclude with Jim’s Day, a special Iftar with various stakeholders.
Spiritual and Cultural Significance
Each afternoon, the Provincial Capitol grounds will host a Ramadhan Symposium and Iftar, providing a space for reflection and communal prayer. These gatherings will reinforce the significance of unity and faith as Basileños observe the holy month.
A Celebration of Progress and a New Chapter
Governor Jim Salliman has extended an invitation to all Basileños, both within the province and beyond, to take part in the celebration. In his message, he underscored the importance of looking back at the achievements of the Provincial Government and the collective progress of the people of Basilan over the past nine years.
“As my administration ends, this year’s annual celebration also signals the charting of a new journey to a much better and progressive Basilan,” Salliman said. He also emphasized that the festivities will be held modestly, in respect of the sacred month of Ramadhan.
With a balance of cultural pride, community engagement, and religious observance, the 51st Founding Anniversary of Basilan and the Tennun Pakaradjaan Festival 2025 is set to be a meaningful and memorable event. All Basileños are encouraged to participate and take pride in the province’s continued growth and resilience.