Mayor Carmelo “Jon” Lazatin II led the celebration of the 2nd Ayta Day at Sitio Target, Barangay Sapangbato, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and Indigenous empowerment.

For the first time, Ayta communities themselves took the lead in organizing the event in partnership with the Angeles City Government and the Angeles City Tourism Office (ACTO). The celebration showcased traditional Ayta contests such as pana (archery) and sulbatana (blowgun), as well as cultural performances, culinary demonstrations, and native hut building inspired by Hawong.

Among those who joined Mayor Lazatin were Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative Carlos P. Salvador, Sitio Target Integrated School Principal Rendon B. Coloma, barangay officials, and representatives from Ayta communities in Sitio Bliss, Sapangbato, Balaraw, and Babo.

The event also featured the ‘Lagu ning Ayta’ (LNA) pageant, recognizing Ayta beauty and heritage, and honored newly licensed Ayta social workers Isaias Baclay and Marie Carmela David for their service.

Mayor Lazatin emphasized that true inclusivity means creating spaces for Indigenous leadership and ensuring their active participation in local planning and development. The celebration reinforced the city’s commitment to cultural preservation, biodiversity, and community empowerment.