DAGUPAN CITY – The city government here is set to plant some 3,000 rosal cuttings in schools, parks, and other places in celebration of the city’s Diamond Jubilee founding anniversary on Oct. 15.
In a statement on Thursday, Mayor Belen Fernandez said this would serve as a reminder to Dagupeños about the official flower of Dagupan, which is rosal.
“Rosal was declared the official flower of the city through City Ordinance No. 2069 in 2016,” she said.
The ordinance said rosal, scientifically known as Gardenia jasminoides Ellis, is historically known to flourish in the plazas and home gardens of the Dagupeños having “very fragrant” flowers.
Rosal plants are now rarely seen in the city so there is a need to promote their propagation.
“With the 75th year anniversary of the city, the local government aims to propagate the rosal plants that symbolize the rich tradition and history of Dagupan,” Fernandez said.
Aside from the rosal planting, the city will also hold a grand parade supposedly on Saturday but was moved due to the threat of a tropical depression.
“There will (be) float(s) representing different decades of the city. There will be a kalesa ride and a display of the old train, among others. It will be a grand celebration for the whole city,” Fernandez said.
She added the celebration will center on the development of the city and the resiliency of its people for the past 75 years.
The date of the grand parade is yet to be announced.
Actors Alden Richards and Bea Alonzo will hold a concert for the Dagupeños on Saturday.
“We hope this celebration will inspire the residents and hope for a brighter future ahead of our city,” Fernandez said.
The city’s diamond jubilee founding anniversary was on June 20 this year but the new administration of Fernandez wanted to celebrate it year-long to give more emphasis to the milestone of the city and its people.
Dagupan was declared a chartered city through Republic Act No. 170 authored by former House Speaker Eugenio Perez Sr. (PNA)
