By Rowena Cruz Gumaca celebrates 442nd Founding Anniversary with religious, artistic, and community events. (Photo from We Love Gumaca) ...
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| Gumaca celebrates 442nd Founding Anniversary with religious, artistic, and community events. (Photo from We Love Gumaca) |
GUMACA, Quezon - The municipality of Gumaca is celebrating its vibrant and multifaceted 442nd founding anniversary. The festivities honor the town's rich history, patron saint, and outstanding citizens, seamlessly blending religious devotion, artistic expression, and community recognition.
The celebrations commenced on November 13, 2024 with a solemn concelebrated Holy Mass at the Cathedral of San Diego de Alcala. Bishop Emilio Marquez of the Diocese of Lucena presided over the mass, joined by priests from the Diocese of Gumaca, led by Rev. Mgr. Ramon Uriarte. Hundreds of residents filled the cathedral, offering prayers of thanksgiving to San Diego de Alcala.
Demonstrating their commitment to this important community event, local officials attended the mass. This group included Mayor Webster Letargo, Vice Mayor Rico Bañal, and members of the town council, who all joined the community in prayer.
Earlier in the week, on November 7, the Southern Quezon Convention Center hosted the second annual San Diego de Alcala Gumaca Short Film Festival. "Paano Kung" emerged as the Best Film, winning awards for Best Sound Design, Best Cinematography, and Best Actress for Rezza Maaño.
"Flor Roja" secured awards for Best Direction, Best Musical Score, Best Production Design, and Best Editing for William Perion. "Kilapsaw" earned the award for Best Screenplay, with acting awards going to Kurt Deseo (Best Actor), Edrian Rufo (Best Supporting Actor), and Angelica Santos (Best Supporting Actress).
The People's Choice Award went to "Katalista" by Kenn Albert Coson. Rev. Fr. Satune Barretto praised the filmmakers for their unique interpretations of San Diego de Alcala's legacy. Mayor Letargo also acknowledged the festival's role in promoting local culture. The festival was attended by Vice Mayor Bañal and representatives from the offices of Governor Helen Tan and Congressman Mike Tan.
Following the film festival, on November 12, the Convention Center also hosted the "Natatanging Anak ng Gumaca" (Unique Sons and Daughters of Gumaca) awarding ceremony. This event, led by Mayor Letargo, recognized individuals who have made exceptional contributions to Gumaca's development. These individuals included Mr. Rodelas, a dedicated educator (posthumous award); Dr. Olaivar, for his community service; and Major General Estrella, for his dedicated public service.
In addition to recognizing individuals, the ceremony also honored organizations making a difference in Gumaca. The Rotary Club of Gumaca received recognition for its outstanding community service, and Alcantara was also acknowledged for his contributions to community service. Furthermore, Governor Angelina Tan was recognized at the ceremony for her public service, particularly in implementing health programs that benefit the people of Quezon Province.
Zuelo E. Uy, Chairperson of the selection committee, presented the awards, emphasizing the importance of service, dedication, and positive impact on the community. The ceremony concluded with a touching tribute song dedicated to the awardees, led by John Philip Salvador.
Finally, the festivities culminated in the highly anticipated Governor's Night, held on November 13th at the Southern Quezon Convention Center. This special event, presented by Governor Angelina DL Tan, Congressman Attorney Mike Tan, and Doc Kim Tan, featured popular actor Kristoffer Martin as a special guest. Along with other surprise guests, the evening promised exciting entertainment for the residents of Gumaca.
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