Apayao celebrates 25 years as independent province

LUNA, Apayao – The i-Apayaos were encouraged to support and participate in the implementation of the various projects, programs, and activities in the province under the new normal.
“We enjoin everyone’s support and participation as we venture to continue, under the prevailing circumstances, with the implementation of various projects, programs, and activities that we envisioned not only to sustain development gains in the past years but more importantly, to ensure the safety, health, and wellness of everyone in this continuing battle of ours against the pandemic,” Gov. Eleanor Bulut-Begtang said in her message during the program in celebration of the 25th year of the province’s corporate existence.
“As we strive to further move forward amidst the disruptions caused by the pandemic, the provincial leadership and the totality of the provincial government workforce take this occasion to once more renew and strengthen our commitment to be of service to our fellow i-Apayaos, and to further the gains we have all collectively worked out through the 25 years of our province’s existence under the “new normal,” she said. 
Begtang noted the unity and cooperation of the former leaders and the people of the province which led to its progress and development and what it is today. 
“We need real commitment in serving the people. If the pioneers have done much in the past, we could also do our part by valuing their efforts and sacrifices through our sincere actions towards progress,” she said.
Apayao was part of the then Kalinga-Apayao province. It became a separate and distinct regular province by virtue of Republic Act 7878 authored by the late Rep. Elias Bulut, Sr. and signed into law by President Fidel V. Ramos on Feb. 14, 1995. The corporate existence of Apayao started on Aug. 1, 1995. 
The simple program at the Apayao Eco-Tourism and Sports Complex in Luna on Aug. 5 was highlighted with the recognition of the province’s pioneer employees for their hard work and sacrifices, and planting of fruit-bearing trees at the eco-tourism area. – Redjie M. Cawis