The spirit of faith, gratitude, and unity set the tone for the province’s milestone celebration as an Ecumenical Service was held on May 21, 2026, at the Carlos M. Padilla Convention Center, ahead of the grand opening of the 17th Grand Ammungan Festival, coinciding with the 187th Founding Anniversary of Nueva Vizcaya.

Held at the Provincial Capitol grounds, this solemn gathering brought together religious leaders from various denominations to invoke divine guidance, blessings, and thanksgiving for the province, its leaders, and its people, serving as the spiritual kickoff to this special one-day celebration.

Leading the service were Rev. Nathaniel R. Flores of Jesus Loves You City Church; Rev. Claro E. Tubayan, District Superintendent of the United Methodist Church Nueva Vizcaya Central District; Rev. Ferdinad A. Ablaza, President of the Christian Ministers Association of Aritao; and His Excellency Most Rev. Jose Elmer I. Mangalinao.

Each officiant shared meaningful spiritual messages and offered prayers for peace, progress, and prosperity. They emphasized the role of faith in community building, resilience, and governance, highlighting that the province’s journey toward development is deeply rooted in its shared values and spiritual foundation. Most Rev. Mangalinao also offered a special prayer and gave the final blessing, sealing the event with a call for unity and continued divine protection over Nueva Vizcaya and all its residents.

The service was graced by provincial officials led by Governor Jose V. Gambito and Vice Governor Eufemia A. Dacayo, alongside members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Congressman Timothy Joseph E. Cayton, and Municipal Mayors from the different towns of the province. Their presence underscored the administration’s recognition of faith as a vital pillar in the province’s development and governance.

Governor Gambito expressed his gratitude to the religious leaders and attendees, noting that the Ammungan Festival—which means “gathering”—is a meaningful occasion to come together in thanksgiving, culture, and heritage, even as it is celebrated for only one day.

“For 187 years, our province has stood strong because of our people’s faith, unity, and shared purpose. This service reminds us that as we mark this special day, we are guided by values that bind us as one community,” Gambito said.

Following the service, the province proceeded with the day’s full lineup of activities showcasing Nueva Vizcaya’s rich history, agriculture, tourism, and local talents. The Ecumenical Service remains a testament to Nueva Vizcaya’s identity, a place where diverse traditions and faiths converge toward a common vision of a progressive, peaceful, and resilient community. /𝒎𝒄𝒄𝒅

[This article was first created on Facebook – Provincial Government of Nueva Vizcaya. For PGNV updates, visit: https://www.facebook.com/vizcayarporter]