Celebrating 444

For the ancient Chinese, a triple four would not be good for anything - be it business, phone number or whatnot. Apparently, the Chinese word for four is 'si', which, when spoken, sounds like the word “death” in Chinese.

But for the Province of Cebu, the number 444 is not an indicator of death. Instead, it is the birth of another year for the province under the new administration of Governor Junjun Davide.

Celebrating its 444th year today, the Province will hold activities operating only on half the budget than the usual. According to reports, there is a 2.3 million slash for this year's budget. Unlike in the past, an anniversary's budget would reach up to 3 million.

This was mandated by Governor Davide who wanted to be careful about spending too much, especially since the province has cash deficit problems. It's clear that the Capitol it tightening its belt this year.

Despite the budget cuts, however, and the scrapping of some activities such as the governor's ball, the province was still able to celebrate its founding anniversary in a meaningful way. I am proud to say that as a Cebuana, the 444th anniversary of the province highlighted the different towns and municipalities in Cebu. Take for example the Agri-fair, it showcases every town's products and delicacies. I saw people flock from one stall to another asking, “Unsa inyong specialty ani nga lungsod? (What is this town's specialty?).” Seeing them filling their eco bags and bayongs with the Agri-fair's produce and products made me happy. Even our humble Consolacionanons sold piles of sarok, an all weather hat made of bamboo.

Anniversaries don't need to be celebrated lavishly. What is important is the essence of the celebration. It is good to remember once a year the roots of the office you are serving. But it is not necessary to shell out millions for just a one time show.

Celebrations like these have a historical value and that cannot be argued. But the people want their money to go where it should be - to development, maybe more infrastructure and health programs in the province.

Simple or lavish, the celebration itself is not important. What is important is for the people to remember how Cebu Province came to be and the people who have made the province what it is now. Malipayong Adlaw sa Kasumaran!