LAOAG CITY (August 10) -- Ilocanos paid homage to war hero, former Ilocos Norte Gov. Roque Ablan, Sr. during his 99th birth anniversary Tuesday.

Ablan's only son and namesake, Ilocos Norte Rep. Roque Ablan, Jr. led the morning's activities starting with a floral and candle offering at the Ablan Shrine.

Director General Arturo Lomibao, Chief PNP, was in attendance during the occasion and delivered a testimonial message.

August 9 has been declared a special holiday in Ilocos Norte in honor of Ilocandia's favorite son and to give Ilocanos the opportunity to ponder on Ablan's contribution to Philippine independence. Contingents from various schools, local and national officials joined the military and civic parade which has been traditionally organized to signal the start of a testimonial program at the provincial capitol stage.

Ilocos Norte Gov. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Laoag City Mayor Michael Fariņas separately welcomed the event's guests before delivering their prepared speeches in honor of the late governor.

The program's highlight included the speech of Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita who took time to pause from his Malacaņang duties to grace the annual affair. (PIA Ilocos)