Olongapo City declares December 7 as Special Working Holiday

To commemorate the 50th Anniversary of Olongapo’s turn-over from the American government to the Philippine government and the 26th year of Olongapo as a highly urbanized city, the Sangguniang Panglungsod has declared December 7, 2009 as a Special Working Holiday by virtue of Ordinance No. 33 (series of 2009) to give way to various activities that are being lined up to commemorate the said events.

“On December 7, 1959, after 61 years under the U.S. government, the then Community of Olongapo was finally turned over to the Philippines. Foreign Affairs Secretary Felixberto Serrano represented the Philippines during the ceremony while Charge d’ Affairs George M. Abbot represented the U. S. government,” Mayor James “Bong” Gordon recalled.

“This significant episode in our history marks the genesis of the contemporary Olongapo City. We must always remember this occasion with great pride and perpetually cherish our independence ,” said Mayor Gordon.

In this connection, Mayor Gordon has also created a Project Committee composed of city government department heads to plan and lead the celebration of the event and to coordinate with Olongapo First Lady and Zambales Vice-Governor Anne Marie Gordon, this year’s Olongapo City Fiesta Executive Chair.

Pao/sara