PUERTO PRINCESA — The Sangguniang Panlungsod here has passed an ordinance designating October 3 as "Araw ng Pagkakaisa," a special non-working holiday in honor of the late House member Edward Hagedorn.

Councilor Luis Marcaida III, who co-authored the measure with Councilor Jimmy Carbonell, said Monday that they want to recognize Hagedorn's contributions to Puerto Princesa, where he served as city mayor in 1992-2001 and 2002–2013.

Marcaida pointed out that Hagedorn has left an enduring legacy for the people of Palawan with his efforts to foster community unity and enhance the quality of life for residents.

"We will remember his final slogan when he ran for congressman, which was 'unity for progress.' That was his last call to unity," Marcaida said.

He said further that the purpose of the special non-working holiday is to commemorate Hagedorn's memory in a permanent manner.

Although the precise details regarding the activities and events that are scheduled to occur on "Araw ng Pagkakaisa" are still being deliberated.

Marcaida has assured residents that the yearly "Araw ng Pagkakaisa" will be celebrated in a festive manner in keeping with the persona of Hagedorn.

He added, however, that the special holiday is exclusively applicable within the city's jurisdiction and does not extend to the Third District of Palawan, where Hagedorn served as congressman before his passing on 3 October.

This is because Sangguniang Panlungsod does not possess legislative power over the entire province, he explained.

However, Marcaida said the municipality of Aborlan, located within the district, could pass a resolution to honor Congressman Hagedorn's memory.