The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) honored the life and contributions of former First Lady Aurora Aragon-Quezon on her 136th birth anniversary.

NCIP Office of the Chairperson-Chief of Staff Christine Faith Sabella said her legacy is marked by unwavering efforts in championing social causes and advocating women’s rights that continues to inspire the current generation.

“She actively campaigned in giving Filipino women the right to suffrage, was involved in the Girl Scouts of the Philippines and Associación de Damas Filipinas, and became the first chairperson of the Philippine National Red Cross in 1947,” she furthered.

And just like the former First Lady, the province named after her has transformed into a beacon of growth.

“Moments like this one afford people the opportunity to pause and consider the rich ethnic past and the legacy of leaders who were instrumental in determining the course of a stunning province. It will make us remember again the history of Aurora, which is also from the ethnic tribes of Alta/Agta, Dumagat, Ilongot and Igorots,” Sabella pressed during the joint observance of Aragon-Quezon’s 136th birth anniversary and Aurora’s 45thfounding anniversary.

Aurora is home to over 4,000 indigenous peoples. 

“Over the years, the people of Aurora, including members of the indigenous communities, have shared stories of resilience and unity; expressing mutual recognition and respect for each other’s rights, a shared journey guided by the principles of development and inclusivity. As a result, Aurora has blossomed into a vibrant community, thriving with diversity, culture, and economic vitality,” Sabella said.

This year’s observance of Aurora’s 45th founding anniversary and Aurora Aragon-Quezon’s 136th birth anniversary carried the theme “Aurora, sa muling Pagsibol ng Liwanang”. 

Activities held include a sports festival, tourism fair, and agricultural trade fair that featured the province’s famed products such as suman, tuna and handicrafts. (PIA 3)