The Provincial Government of Zamboanga del Norte will pay tribute
to the returning overseas Zanorteans (balikbayan) through a
fitting celebration dubbed as “Barrio Fiesta sa
Zanorte – Balikbayan Fellowship Night” to be held on June 9, 2006
at the ZN Convention Center Poolside, Dipolog City.
This was announced by Atty. Michael Alan Ranillo,
Chairman of the Zanorte Tourism Council and lead organizer of
the annual Hudyaka Zanorte Festival.

“Our fellow Zanorteans who have migrated abroad for greener
pasture have contributed a lot not just to the upliftment of
the quality of life of the families they have left here but
also to the development of our province. They are our country’s
unsung heroes and Zanorte’s ambassadors of goodwill;
it is just appropriate that we recognize their efforts
and contributions,” said Atty. Michael Alan Ranillo,
Chairman of the Zanorte Tourism Council and lead organizer
of the annual Hudyaka Zanorte Festival..

“Our fellow Zanorteans who have migrated abroad for greener
pasture have contributed a lot not just to the uplift of the
quality of life of the families they have left here but also
to the development of our province. They are our country’s
unsung heroes and Zanorte’s ambassadors of goodwill; it is
just appropriate that we recognize their efforts and contributions,”
said Ranillo. Preparing for the homecoming party for the
balikbayans is a committee led by Edwin Capili of the Dipolog
Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The group, together with the
Provincial Tourism Office, is making sure that no stone is
left unturned for the success of this special gathering.
According to Capili the tribute to the balikbayans will be
“in the best traditional barrio fiesta with native dishes
and delicacies.” Local talents will provide entertainment
renditions of rondalla, harana, ethnic and folk dance
performance during the occasion.
The Balikbayan Fellowship is by invitation only.
Balikabayans are requested to register prior to the event
with the Provincial Tourism Office.