Doc Marly Joins Crowd of 30,000 at Ipil Carnival Opening Night

Daphne Santuyo

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay — The much anticipated opening night of the Ipil Carnival last November 30, 2025 drew an estimated 30,000 people according to Mayor Ramses Troy D. Olegario, and the presence of Doc Marly Hofer Hasim helped make the event even more festive.

From early evening, the streets and central grounds of Ipil filled with families, friends, and visitors, all drawn by the carnival’s lights, music, and sense of celebration. Many described the turnout as “unprecedented,” with the crowd swelling far beyond previous years. According to Mayor Olegario, the sheer number of attendees may be the largest the town has seen for a single event.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, 2nd District Representative, Doc Marly Hofer Hasim joined the crowd, greeting residents and sharing in the merriment. Her presence, several attendees noted, gave the celebration a sense of warmth and community pride, a signal of her support for local gatherings and public events.

Also present were prominent provincial and municipal officials including Richard Olegario, Vice Governor, and municipal administrator and former vice governor Rey Andre Olegario. Their attendance underscored the significance of the event not only as a local festivity but as part of broader provincial efforts to promote unity, tourism, and community spirit in Zamboanga Sibugay.

The opening night featured vibrant performances, local business stalls, street food, souvenir booths, and a spectacular “Lights On” ceremony that bathed the carnival grounds in festive illumination. Mayor Olegario said the carnival will continue for a whole month, with more shows and activities expected.

Local officials expressed hope that the carnival and the massive turnout will foster stronger community ties and help boost local business