Cadiz City celebrated its 58th Charter Day July 4, highlighted by the oathtaking of elected officials, and honoring its partners in strengthening the local revenue and sustaining economic stability.
The day began with a Holy Mass, offering prayers of gratitude and guidance for the city’s newly-elected officials. This was followed by the processional of elected officials accompanied by their families, a symbolic entrance that honored not only public duty but also the support of loved ones, the city said.
Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr. took his oath of office before Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, while Vice Mayor John Vincent Escalante and the members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod were sworn in by Negros Occidental 2nd District Rep. Alfredo Marañon III.
The 10 councilors are Marlon Metoda, Claire Therese Consing, Frances Guanzon, Maricel Desuyo, Fria Cristine Cervantes-Napiza, Kathrina Kaye Gustilo-Balbin, Lalen Lamis, Joan Paulene Decolongon, Cedric Jon Nido Olvido, and Vicente William Tabanao.
Both Lacson and Marañon delivered inspirational messages, and reminded everyone of the importance of servant-leadership, accountability, and unity in public service.
VM Escalante, meanwhile, expressed his heartfelt gratitude during his welcome remarks, and said he hopes for the continuous growth of Cadiz anchored on unity, service, and progress.
Also recognized during the event were long-serving public officials, who received Service Awards for their years of dedication and contribution to local governance.
Former VM Lilia Decolongon was honored for her 27 years of combined service as an SP member (1995–2004, 2007–2016) and as vice mayor (2016–2025).
Sheila Tabanao and Warren Zaragoza Sr. were each recognized for their nine years of committed service as councilors, from 2016 to 2025.
The Top 10 business, advance, and prompt taxpayers were also recognized, reflecting a lasting commitment to Cadiz’s vision of inclusive and sustainable growth.
A Commitment of Support was also expressed by key sectoral representatives, each affirming their stance with the city’s goals of inclusive and sustainable development.
Representing the youth sector was SK Federation president Keanu Sarabia, Maria Charo Hechanova, OIC of the General Services Office, for the government workforce; P/Lt. Col. John Joel Batusbatusan, chief of the Cadiz Police Station, for the peace and order sector; and Charles Romanillos, vice president of Aboitiz Renewables Inc., in behalf of chief growth officer David Mikel Aboitiz, for the business sector.
The ceremony culminated with the inaugural address of Mayor Escalante, who urged every Cadiznon to stand united with unwavering purpose and shared resolve. He stressed the importance of inclusive policymaking, resilient and transparent governance, and active citizen engagement as key pillars in shaping a future-ready, empowered, and ever-progressive Cadiz City.
Adding vibrance to the occasion also graced by Board Members Pal Guanzon and Arthur Christopher Marañon, department heads, barangay officials, SK leaders, and sectoral partners, were performances from Cadiznon artists and cultural groups, including the CAntaDIZnon, PNU Makakawiwili Dance Troupe, Golden Gents, DVFGMNHS Mahidaiton Dance Troupe, and Rave Arevalo, showcasing the city’s rich talent and creative spirit, the city added. ||
