Sulu marks 614th founding anniversary; activities set


By NONOY E. LACSON


JOLO, Sulu — The provincial government of Sulu will mark starting today the 614th founding anniversary of the province with theme “economic development is the key to peace and progress.”


Sulu Vice Gov. Nur Anna Sahidulla said the three-day anniversary activities will kick off with the traditional, colorful Muslim parade which will be participated in by the province’s 18 towns and some civic and military groups here.

The vice governor said Social Welfare and Development Secretary Corazon Soliman is expected to grace the occasion which will showcase the products and the diverse culture of the Muslims tribes in Sulu.

She said the traditional Muslim songs and “pangalay dance” competition will also be held. A show featuring the culture and arts of the Suluanos will be likewise presented.

The province is noted for its abundant production of exotic fruits such as durian, lanzones, magosten and mangoes and other fruits that can be found only in this province.

A trade fair will be held beside the Sulu Museum, displaying, among others, the hand-woven Jolo cloth and colorful dresses.

In the 16th century during the time of Sung and Lim-a-Hong dynasties, Sulu was the trading center in Southern Philippines due to its proximity to countries in the East Asia Pacific Region, the lady governor said.

Meanwhile, Sulu Gov. Benjamin Loong said yesterday the province has extended invitation to President Gloria Macapagal to grace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao business congress which will be held in this province on Oct. 12.

wow.. 614th? didnt know that.. nice to know! my lolo and lola originally lived there. i was able to go there when i was 3 yrs. old.. uh, around 16 years ago.. hehe

yes, it is that old!

But according to many historians it could be much older.