Los Baños celebrates 400th founding year and 14th Bañamos Festival

 Alaric Santiaguel   |  

Los Baños, Philippines – Home to the University of thePhilippines Los Baños since 1908, and the International Rice Research Institute(IRRI) since 1960, Los Baños (Spanish word for “the baths”) is known as the Special Science and Nature City of the Philippines.

As part of its 400th Founding Anniversary and 14th Bañamos Festival, thousands of residents joined the colorful parade that stretched from the National Road and into Paciano Rizal Park early in the morning of 17 September 2015.

During the festivities, Los Baños honored its rich history and recognized the year's outstanding citizens and the contributions of its hosted organizations, including IRRI. The award was received by Bruce Tolentino, IRRI deputy director general for communication and partnerships, and was given by Mayor Caesar Perez; Congressman Joaquin Chipeco; and Mark Lapid, chief operating officer of TIEZA. Mayor Perez recognized IRRI's donations and efforts in conducting livelihood programs and training workshops in emergency response and disaster preparedness in the community.

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