CEBU CITY – Showcasing its rich history, cultural diversity, and agricultural bounty, the province of Zamboanga del Norte successfully commemorated its 72nd founding anniversary highlighted by the holding of the traditional Hudyaka Zanorte Festival 2024.
THE cultural dance competition is one of the highlights of the Hudyaka Zanorte Festival 2024 in Zamboanga del Norte. (Calvin D. Cordova)
A total of 14 local government units participated in the nine-day celebration that showcased the province’s commerce and travel items through the Agri Tourism Booth Fair, culture and customs of different towns, as well as their local festivals.
Held from May 29 to June 6, the festival also featured an array of sporting events such as chess, badminton, motocross, drag race, volleyball, half-marathon, football, practical shooting, darts, mountain bike, and mixed martial arts.
The festival was a big boost to the province's economy and tourism industry, said Zamboanga del Norte Gov. Rosalina "Nanay Nene" Jalosjos.
"I believe it has really a good impact on our tourism and economy," said Jalosjos.
She emphasized that the festival is not just about cultural extravaganza.
Hudyaka Festival is the province’s way of thanksgiving, a sign of gratitude for Zamboanga del Norte’s agricultural success and bountiful harvest despite the El Niño phenomenon that affected the lives of millions of Filipinos, Jalosjos said.
“It is our people’s way of thanking the Lord for their current situation. ‘Hudyaka’ means to rejoice for what we have been given by God or blessed by God. That's what you mean by hudyaka,” said Jalosjos.
Jalosjos said that while most farmers across the country were severely affected by the drought and intense heat, the province was spared as it was blessed with occasional rains that enabled its farmers to sustain its livelihood.
“We didn’t have severe damage here. In other places, the heat was extreme but here, we have occasional rains. God really helped us so that we will not be affected by the drought. Our farmers were able to plant. We have enough supply of rice. That’s why we have to enjoy, we have to rejoice in God's blessings that were given to us,” said Jalosjos.
With the success of this year’s Hudyaka Festival, Jalosjos assured the people of Zamboanga de Norte of a grander festival next year. “We will make it bigger and even better next year,” the governor said.