The City Government of Isabela, under the leadership of Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, proudly brought the city’s rich culture and artistry to the spotlight during the 2025 Zamboanga Peninsula Exposition (ZAMPEX) held on October 24 at the KCC Convention Center in Zamboanga City. Carrying the theme “LAYAG: Tuloy ang Paglalakbay Isabela de Basilan,” the presentation beautifully captured Isabela City’s continuing journey of celebrating its people, culture, and creativity.
Under the artistic direction of City Tourism Officer Claudio Ramos II, the program featured captivating performances from the Pasangan Cultural Dance Troupe and local artists Joy Saavedra, Krystel Kate Beron, and Aarol Fernandez, followed by a stunning fashion showcase presenting select pieces from the Ropa Rampa: The Tepo and Tennun Fashion Show by Ropa Rampa Design Creatives and talented models.
Vice Mayor Ar Jhemar “Nims” Ajibon, representing Mayor Turabin-Hataman, delivered a message of support, commending the City Tourism Office for its continued efforts in promoting local artistry and cultural heritage on the regional stage.
Also present were City Councilors Jeromy Casas, Benjo Abubakar, Alex Infante Ututalum, Jashim Tiplani, and Khaleedsher Asarul, along with CDRRMO Uso Dan Salasim and LEDIPO Jamju A. Rivera, who joined in representing Isabela City at the regional exposition.
The 2025 Zamboanga Peninsula Exposition (ZAMPEX) ran from October 22 to 26 at the KCC Convention Center, gathering local government units, entrepreneurs, and artists from across Region IX. Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region IX, ZAMPEX serves as a premier platform for MSMEs to showcase the best of local products, creativity, and innovation in the Zamboanga Peninsula. (Words by E. Banding-Hadjala, CIO/Photos by A. Puti, IsaTV)
