Tubajon enlivens town’s history on 55th Charter Day
TUBAJON, Dinagat Islands – The municipality of Tubajon in Dinagat Islands celebrated its 55th Charter Day on June 21.
The celebration reminded the Tubajanons of the rich history and culture of the place through a grand and vibrant festivity and activities with the theme, ”Great Tubajon: Kalambuan Ipadayon!”
Mayor Simplicia “Fely” P. Pedrablanca, motivated her constituents saying, “As one people, we are able to face and overcome all challenges. Let us also look towards the future where we will continue our journey towards strengthening our beloved municipality as a shining example of good governance, people's participation, inclusive development, and environmental conservation.”
Tubajon, has its own unique tale to tell, from its intricate sea beds of corals to its magnificent forests and mountains where pristine waters cascade through streams and rivers, it is endowed with natural resources both on land and in its waters.
Topography
Located in the northern part of the Dinagat Islands, beneath the towering mountains of Redondo, Tubajon is bounded on the east by the Pacific Ocean, on the west by the Surigao Strait, on the north by the Municipality of Loreto, and on the south by the Municipality of Libjo. The area is rich in natural beauty and resources, enjoyed by its people and our ancestors for over 300 years.
The first settlers of Tubajon arrived from the Visayas Islands, particularly from Samar and Leyte, as early as the 1700s. This diverse heritage is reflected in the local dialects, including Waray and Boholano. The early settlers thrived by utilizing the abundant resources from the sea, rivers, mountains, and fields.
One notable legend involves the "Tuba-tuba" plant, which early settlers used to stun fish, making them easier to catch. This practice led to the discovery of a rich fishing ground in a place called "Tabok" (present-day Sta. Cruz). According to folklore, they would say, “Moadto mi sa Tabok kay among tubaon ang suba.” The term ‘Tubaon" eventually evolved into "Tubajon," which is believed to be the origin of the municipality's name.
Political genesis
Tubajon was once a barangay of the municipality of Loreto before becoming a separate municipality. This change was due to the efforts of local leaders who lobbied for its independence. The transition was formalized on June 21, 1969, when President Ferdinand E. Marcos signed Republic Act No. 5643, officially establishing Tubajon as a municipality. The town is now comprised of nine barangays: Diaz, Imelda, Mabini, Malinao, Navarro, Roxas, San Roque, San Vicente, and Sta. Cruz.
Tubajon’s governance began with Mayor Jacinto Pinat, Sr., elected in 1972, serving until 1980. He was succeeded by Mayor Mariano Gupana (1980-1986). After the EDSA Revolution, which brough a new era of democratic governance in the country, Mayor Solomon Maligmat was appointed as OIC local chief executive by President Corazon C. Aquino, serving until 1988.
The first local election under the new government saw Mayor Rodulfo G.
Pinat elected, serving three terms from 1988 to 1998. His daughter, Mayor
Annabel P. Pelismino succeeded him, serving for one term from 1998 to 2001.
Mayor Ronald O. Luib followed with three consecutive terms from 2001 to 2010,
then Mayor Romeo Constantino L. Vargas from 2010 to 2019.
The current mayor was elected in 2019 and is now on her second term, establishing a new brand of leadership which places premium on people's participation in governance. This gave rise to the creation of the Tubajon People's Council (TUPECO) formed by various people's organizations from different sectors and the first of its kind in the entire Caraga region in Mindanao.
Despite facing challenges and calamities, Tubajon has remained steadfast and resilient, earning recognition and awards, as well as the trust of many international and national non-government and civil society organizations that act as our partners in development and conservation.
Guided by the principles of great Tubajon, Mayor Pedrablanca continues to inspire her constituents, emphasizing the values expressed in the Tubajon Hymn, composed by Fr. Bernie O. Diaz, CM, on October 2, 2003. This legacy of resilience and community spirit is celebrated and upheld by the people of Tubajon as a lungsod nga ‘talagsaon (unique/rare).’ (MIO-Tubajon/PIA-Dinagat Islands)
