LGU Binalonan on October 17 hosted the opening of the 6th Region I Tourism Convention at the Binalonan Rock Garden Events Tent Center.
Tourism officers and stakeholders from the different municipalities, cities, and provinces from the region attended the Welcome Reception Dinner tendered by the municipal government.
Binalonan Mayor Ramon N. Guico Jr. welcomed the delegates and invited them to see what the town showcases. Guico particularly mentioned the Binalonan Dancing Fountain, the Sports & Civic Center and encouraged them to go around the Binalonan Christmas Bazaar which was formally opened on October 12.
Department of Tourism Regional Director Martin Valera, in his message, expressed his admiration of the town’s distinctive atmosphere.
“I am supposed to give you an inspirational message but I am the one being inspired. I am inspired by the beauty of your town,” said Valera, who was earlier toured around the town plaza by Mayor Guico.
Vice Mayor Melicio Patague II formally opened the convention and also represented the Congressman of the 5th District of Pangasinan, Ramon V. Guico III.
In his inspirational message, Patague mentioned among all others that there are no mountains, beaches, or any natural attraction to boast of in Binalonan, but the best resource that the town offers is the people, guided by its core values of Maka-Diyos, Marunong at Malinis and achieving excellence with its battle cry of ‘Binalonan, Ang Galing.’
Maria Luisa Elduayan, head of Pangasinan Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO) boosted the presence of tourism officers of Pangasinan.
Councilor Noel Apolinario Bautista, chair, Committee on Tourism together with the other members of the Sangguniang Bayan, Councilors Glory Jovelyn Manaois, Josephine Caburnay, Bryan Louie Balangue, Lorenzo Tambo, Jerry Aradanas, ABC President, Rodelito Alibuyog and SK President Ronald Biado graced the occasion.
Vanjoss Bayaban, semi-finalist of the 5th edition of The Voice Kids Philippines, under Team Sarah, rendered 3 songs to the delight of the delegates and guests.
Other intermission numbers were provided by Binalonan’s daily winner of Showtime Tawag ng Tanghalan, Fortunata Tenioso with the Insekto Pares Band and by the Small Action Force (SAF) of Binalonan.
Juan Strings Rondalla of Juan G. Macaraeg National High School did the National Anthem, Pangasinan Hymn and the Binalonan Hymn.
.The event was spearheaded by LGU Tourism Coordinator Angelica B. Perigrino and hosted by Tamara Jane Ventanilla, college instructor of WCC ATC.