Valenzuela City marked the culmination of its 400th founding anniversary celebration with a grand night of festivities, including the launch of the city's coffee table book, "Valenzuela: History and Progress," and a vibrant Cultural Night fashion show.
The event, held at Casa de Polo in Barangay Poblacion on Sunday, 26 November, was graced by First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, who joined Mayor Wes Gatchalian and the city council in unveiling the building marker of Casa de Polo.
The inauguration of Casa de Polo, a heritage-themed events space, signifies its opening for all accommodations, marking a significant milestone in the city's history.
Mayor Gatchalian emphasized the importance of celebrating the city's 400th founding anniversary, expressing gratitude to those who contributed to the successful series of celebrations.
The coffee table book features a comprehensive walk-through of the city's heritage, tracing remarkable events from the old town of Polo to its gradual transformation into an urbanized city.
The book delves into the city's unique culture, showcasing its food, art, customs, traditions, churches, and local governance aspects, including education, health, social services and ecotourism.
Leading to the grand finale, Cultural Night, a fashion presentation that paid homage to Valenzuela City's history and cultural heritage, took center stage. The program showcased the works of three renowned local designers: Michael Leyva, Robbie Santos and Daniel Manila.
The fashion show exhibited three blocks, resonating themes of Polo, showcasing Pueblo de Polo's agricultural background; Fatima, highlighting the vibrant culture and faith of Valenzuelanos; and Agos, focusing on the city's relentless pursuit of progress and "riding the waves" of continuous growth and innovation.
The event was also graced by Senators Grace Poe and Mark Villar, Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval, San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora, National Museum of the Philippines Director Jeremy Barns, LGU department heads, members of the city council, punong barangays, judges, fiscals, delegates of the Comelec, Chamber of Commerce and Industry and JCI, among others.
