Mayor John Dalipe has issued an executive order creating committees that will oversee preparations for the Zamboanga Hermosa Festival 2023 set in October.

Executive Order JD 2023-057 formalizes the creation of 17 sub-committees with Mayor John Dalipe as overall Festival Chairperson with City Administrator Mario Yanga and City Tourism Officer Sarita Sebastian as co-chairpersons.

The creation of the committees signals the start of preparations for the grand annual festival that is in honor of the Nuestra Senora La Virgen del Pilar whose feast day is on October 12.

The created committees include the ways and means; events management; cash disbursement and liquidation; security and safety; physical set-up and beautification; radio communication, crowd control and marshal; medical and emergency; publicity and promotion; transportation; reception and tours (for VIPs); traffic management; food; permit and regulation; cleanliness and sanitation; sponsorship; program preparation and religious activities. 

The annual Zamboanga Hermosa Festival, sometimes referred to as the “Fiesta Pilar,” is held in remembrance of Our Lady of the Pilar, the city of Zamboanga’s patroness.

Through a variety of captivating events, it seeks to celebrate and highlight the city’s rich culture and tradition.

Based on the EO, the City Tourism Office shall be overall supervision and management of the program and activities for the Festival. 

The EO was signed by Mayor Dalipe June 19, 2023 and takes effect immediately. (Ma. Bernadeth Lazaro/ CMO-PIO)