GAPO REMEMBERS GORDON, Sr.

Olongapo City commemorated the 92nd birth anniversary of James L. Gordon, Sr., the acknowledged Father of Olongapo last January 17, 2009 at Gordon Park, Kalaklan, Olongapo City.

Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr., and relatives led the festivities that included the laying of wreaths at selected areas including Gordon Park, Tappan Park, Marikit Park, Olongapo City Hall and New Kalalake Elementary School. A simple mass followed at Gordon Park officiated by Rev. Fr. Mike Duffin.

Vice-Governor Anne Marie Gordon opened the program after the mass followed by a song number from Dr. Rina Rose Cajudo and the tribute entitled “Remembering the Dad” by James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. He expressed emotional memories about his late father. SK President Cheenee Hoya likewise rendered her own version of the song “Hero”.

In his message, Mayor Gordon declared his aspirations to continue his father’s advocacy to advance the welfare of Olongapeños. “I know I’m in no comparison to him but I’m trying to accomplish and do the things he would have wanted me to do as steward of the community for which he died for,” Mayor Gordon said.

Olongapo City First Lady and Zambales Vice Governor Anne Marie Gordon, Vice Mayor Cynthia Cajudo, Veronica Gordon Lorenzana, city councilors, city department heads and some other dignitaries graced the program.

James L. Gordon, Sr. is considered the Father of Olongapo because of his valuable contributions in the formation of Olongapo up to its conversion into a city, which was realized on June 1, 1966.

Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. with First Lady and Zambales Vice-Gov. Anne Marie Gordon, Veronica Gordon Lorenzana and Councilor Aquilino Cortez during the 92nd Birth Anniversary of James L. Gordon, Sr. at Gordon Park, Kalaklan, Olongapo City on January 17, 2009.

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