The city government of Marikina celebrated its Rehiyon-Rehiyon festival which pays tribute to the migrants who have chosen to stay in Marikina and significantly contributed to its progress.

It is annually being celebrated on December 8, coinciding with Marikina’s cityhood anniversary.

In his message during the celebration, Marikina City Mayor Marcelino “Marcy” Teodoro said there is now a wider meaning of becoming a Marikeño, saying as long as a person who studies, works, or conducts business has discipline and good conduct— he/she is considered a resident.

A carnival-like atmosphere prevailed in the air as the citizens of the city revel in street dancing and production numbers such by folk dancers wearing magnificent costumes that also showcase the culture and heritage of Marikina.

The mayor said the main idea of being a Marikeño revolves around the loving the City of Marikina.

“Sinasabi ng iba, ang taga-Marikina ay may disiplina, may mabuting ugali, may pagpapahalaga sa pamilya. Ngunit ang pinaka nasa sentro ng lahat ay ang pagmamahal para sa bayan ng Marikina. Ang makita ang sarili bilang isang bahagi ng bayang ito, at nakikibahagi sa mga taong naririto, at sa kwento nito (Others say people from Marikina are disciplined, well-behaved, and have family values. But, at the center of it all is the love for the City of Marikina. To see ourselves as a part of this city, and to be involved with the people here, and in its story),” he said.

“We in Marikina, an urbanized city, 70 percent of our residents are already migrants — from other provinces or regions. We celebrate life together as a community in Marikina,” he explained.

Officials of Japan’s Sakai City, a sister city of Marikina, also attended the 2019 Rehiyon-Rehiyon festival.

Sakai City Mayor Masahiro Hashimoto even gave Teodoro the necklace that Pope Francis gave to him. Hashimoto also showed that he was wearing Marikina-made shoes during the event.

Students from various schools in Marikina performed during the event showcasing the various festival dances of several regions in the country.

Among the dances showcased during the festivities were the Bangus Festival, Sinulog Festival, Ati-Atihan Festival, Kadayawan Festival, and Panagbenga Festival among other festival dances.

On December 8, 1996, President Fidel V. Ramos signed Republic Act 8223, transforming Marikina from a humble municipality in the eastern part of Metro Manila to a well-developed and highly urbanized city not only known for its world-class footwear but also because of its well-disciplined residents. (PNA)