WHEREAS, the City Government of Dagupan has launched its bid to gain the title as the Bangus Capital of the world through the first-ever Bangus Festival held on April 28 to May 1, 2002. The Bangus Festival coincided with the Pista'y Dayat 2002 celebration along the Lingayen Gulf Coastline;

WHEREAS, among the highlights included in the 2nd Bangus Festival are the Gilon! Gilon! Dance Parade, cookfest, rodeo and the City's bid for the world's longest barbeque grill, wherein the uniquely delectable Bonuan Bangus will be the main feature; and

WHEREAS, it is but fitting and proper to give Dagupenos enough time to join and celebrate this important event with appropriate ceremonies.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ALBERTO G. ROMULO, Executive Secretary, by order of Her Excellency, GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO, do hereby declare Friday, May 2, 2003, as a special day in the City of Dagupan.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the Republic of the Philippines to be affixed.

Done in the City of Manila, this 4th day of April, in the year of Our Lord, Two Thousand and Three.


By the Executive Secretary:

(Sgd.) JOAQUIN C. LAGONERA
Senior Deputy Executive Secretary