Lamao, Liloy – a solemn ceremony and holy mass were held to mark the 80th anniversary of the Shin’yō Maru historical incident, honoring the lives lost aboard the ill-fated vessel, including Chaplain Joseph Verbis Lafleur, whose martyrdom is currently part of the sainthood process.

Regional Director Dara May Cataluña of the Department of Tourism Region IX delivered a keynote address outlining her vision for the future of tourism in the Municipality of Liloy and the broader Zamboanga Peninsula. Her remarks emphasized the region’s potential as a hub for historical tourism, focusing on community development and cultural preservation.This event was in convergence with the LGU of liloy in celebration of the Tourism Month with the theme Tourism and Peace.

DOT 9 expresses its gratitude to Liloy Municipal Mayor Roberto Lim Uy Jr., Board Member Venus Uy, the Espinas, Dumasapal, and Cuevas families for their invaluable contributions which have made the establishment of the Shin’yō Maru Landmark and Memorial Center possible. This project is a testament to their commitment to preserving local heritage for future generations.