Lapu-Lapu City marks Charter Day with tributes, vision for the future

CEBU, Philippines —  The City of Lapu-Lapu commemorated its 64th Charter Day with a grand celebration at the Hoops Dome on June 17, reflecting on its transformation from a humble fishing village to a dynamic urban center through the theme, “Unity and Resilience Through Change: Honoring Lapu-Lapu City’s Legacy.”

The ceremony was led by outgoing Mayor and Congressman-elect Junard “Ahong” Chan, incoming Mayor and outgoing Lone District Representative Ma. Cynthia “Cindi” King-Chan, and Vice Mayor Celedonio Sitoy. Together, they honored the city’s rich history and cultural identity while outlining plans for sustained growth.

“This day marks more than just a historical milestone — it marks our continued journey as a community,” said Mayor Chan said, adding how Lapu-Lapu City was built on the courage of Datu Lapu-Lapu, and continues to thrive through the unity and resilience of its people.

He emphasized that Lapu-Lapu’s transformation is deeply rooted in the character of its people.

"Our real achievement lies in the strength of our people—hardworking, compassionate, and united. Our teachers, health workers, fishermen, vendors, drivers, laborers, and the youth—they are our modern-day warriors,” he said.

Recalling the enactment of Republic Act No. 3134 on June 17, 1961, which converted the municipality of Opon into Lapu-Lapu City, Chan paid tribute to the late Congressman Manuel Zosa, who authored the law that granted the city local autonomy and fueled its development.

He also urged the public to remain patient amid ongoing infrastructure projects, which he said are necessary investments for the city’s long-term future.

“Mao nga sa kanunay magsinabtanay kita, ilabi na sa jutay nga kahasol nga mamugna sa mga nagpadayon nga proyekto sa atong kagamhanan,” Chan said.

Looking ahead to his new role as a lawmaker, Chan vowed to continue lobbying for national funding to address pressing needs, such as additional classrooms, daycare and super health centers, and the completion of the Lapu-Lapu City Hospital.

He also committed to pushing for large-scale infrastructure projects such as flyovers, skyways, coastal roads, and bridges to improve mobility and boost tourism.

“May we hold on to the lessons of the past and hopes of the future because the true progress is not just measured by what we build but by how we uplift each other along the way,” Chan said.

King-Chan, for her part, honored both past and present Oponganons who shaped the city’s legacy.

“We honor past and present Oponganons who have brought pride to our city, who blazed trails and made Lapu-Lapu City the progressive and prosperous city we know it now,” she said.

“We celebrate each and everyone’s role in making Lapu-Lapu City not just a top tourist destination… but more importantly, for making it our home,” she added, highlighting inclusive governance as her priority.

As part of the festivities, five barangays—Basak, Calawisan, Caw-oy, Punta Engaño, and Subabasbas—were recognized for earning the 2024 Seal of Good Local Governance for Barangays from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

The city also honored 10 retirees with a Service Award and 11 employees with a Loyalty Award for their dedication.

Additionally, the RP Mission and Development Foundation Inc. (RPMD) recognized Mayor Chan with the Star of Excellence Award and Mayor-elect King-Chan with the Laurel of Excellence Award for Outstanding Public Servants.

In closing, Mayor Chan emphasized that the true measure of progress lies not only in physical development but in community upliftment.

"True progress is not just measured by tall buildings, but by strong communities. Let us not be content until every Oponganon can feel the pride of living in a city that truly cares," he said.-    Giane Kate Pilapil  Raphael Veloso (CEBU NEWS)