(July 1, 2010) Laoag City Mayor Michael V. Fariñas took his oath  of office from Governor Maria Imelda "Imee" Marcos yesterday at the Capitol Stage before a huge crowd that withstood searing heat from a cloudless sky.

In the oath taking ceremonies of Ilocos Norte Officials, Governor Marcos was first to take her oath from Honorable Conrado A. Ragucos, Executive Judge of the Regional Trial Court. The Governor then administered the oaths of Congressman of District I Rodolfo C. Fariñas, Mayor Michael V. Fariñas, Provincial Board Members, some Municipal Mayors and other Officials of Ilocos Norte.

Under the theme "One Ilocos Norte", the Marcos family which included Congresswoman of District II Imelda R. Marcos and Senator Ferdinand Marcos II, spoke of unity and oneness, urging all Ilocos Nortenians to rally behind their group to make Ilocos Norte great again. Congressman Rudy Fariñas stressed the critical importance of peace and order in the province, and promised that Laoag City will achieve its best years during their terms.

A thanksgiving mass ensued at the St. William Cathedral, officiated by Most Reverend Sergio Utleg, Bishop of Laoag, after which a sumptuous lunch was served to everyone at the Laoag City Hall.