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Featured News Features Press Release

DAGUPAN CITY EARNS OWWA TIMPUYOG AWARD FOR EXEMPLARY SUPPORT TO OFWs

The City Government of Dagupan has earned the prestigious Timpuyog Award from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), recognizing its strong commitment to the welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families.

Mayor Belen T. Fernandez personally received the award together with Public Employment Service Office (PESO) Manager Joy Siapno during the 31st Migrant Workers’ Day Celebration and Araw ng Pasasalamat held on June 11, 2026, at Aureo Hotel and Resort in San Fernando City, La Union.

The Timpuyog Award is conferred upon local government units that demonstrate exemplary partnership and collaboration with OWWA in delivering programs and services that uplift the lives of migrant workers and their families.

The local chief executive expressed gratitude for the recognition, noting that it reflects the city’s continuing efforts to support and empower Overseas Filipino Workers and their families.

“This recognition inspires us to continue providing meaningful programs and opportunities for our migrant workers and their families, whose sacrifices contribute greatly to our community and our nation,” Mayor Fernandez said.

She emphasized the importance of strong collaboration between local and national government agencies in expanding assistance programs, creating opportunities, and providing essential services for OFWs and their loved ones.

Mayor Fernandez also thanked OWWA Region 1 Regional Director Marivic Mondina, DOLE Region I Regional Director Honorina Dian-Baga, DMW Region I Regional Director Christian Rey Sison, and all partner agencies for their continued collaboration in promoting the welfare and development of migrant workers.

The award affirms Dagupan City’s continuing efforts to create opportunities, strengthen services, and build programs that recognize the valuable contributions of migrant workers to their families, communities, and the nation.

 

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City Health Office Open 24/7 Featured News Features Press Release

UST MEDICAL MISSION REACHES 1,135 DAGUPEÑO BENEFICIARIES

Strengthening a longstanding partnership in healthcare, the Local Government Unit of Dagupan, through the City Health Office and UST Medical Missions, Inc., successfully delivered 1,135 free healthcare services to Dagupeño beneficiaries during a two day medical mission held on May 30 and 31.

The medical mission offered free circumcision (libreng tuli), minor surgical procedures, arthritis awareness and consultation sessions at West Central Elementary School, while free ultrasound services for mothers were simultaneously conducted at the City Health Office.

On the first day, 500 beneficiaries received free circumcision services, 146 patients underwent minor surgical procedures, 50 mothers availed of free ultrasound services, and 50 individuals participated in arthritis consultation and education sessions.

Services continued on the second day, benefiting an additional 283 circumcision patients, 80 minor surgery patients, and 26 ultrasound beneficiaries.

Mayor Belen Fernandez, through a Facebook post, expressed her gratitude to Dr. William Olalia, President of UST Medical Missions, Inc.; Dr. Virgilio Castro, Sonologist; the City Health Office headed by Dr. Julita De Venecia; PhilHealth; Barangay Health Workers (BHWs); and all volunteer healthcare workers whose dedication helped make the mission a success.

The initiative reflects Dagupan City’s continuing commitment to bringing essential healthcare services closer to communities and ensuring that quality, accessible healthcare remains within reach of every Dagupeño family.

 

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City Health Office Open 24/7 Events Features Press Release

DAGUPAN CITY RECEIVES UHC INTEGRATION SITE AWARD FROM DOH REGION 1

The Department of Health Center for Health Development Region 1 awarded the Dagupan City with the Universal Health Care Integration Site Award during the “Achieving Resilient Health Systems: The Regional Universal Health Care and PuroKalusugan Summit” held on May 21 in San Fernando, recognizing the city’s strong leadership and continuing commitment to building an accessible, integrated, and resilient healthcare system for every Dagupeño.

Leading the Dagupan delegation was Mayor Belen T. Fernandez together with Dra. Jo De Venecia and Dr. Amadeo Zarate.

The recognition highlights Dagupan City’s continuing efforts in strengthening healthcare delivery, expanding community based health programs, and improving access to quality public healthcare services.

The summit gathered key national and regional health and government leaders, including DOH Regional Director I Dr. Paula Paz M. Sydiongco, UHC Head for HS Luzon Cluster Usec. Glenn Matthew Baggao, PhilHealth Regional Vice President Dennis Adre, and other regional officials and healthcare stakeholders committed to advancing resilient healthcare systems across Region 1.

Also joining the Dagupan delegation were Nurse Tina Cayabyab, City Accountant Rio Catugas, and Barangay Health Worker President Myra Quinto.

“We are honored and grateful for this recognition from DOH Region 1. This inspires us to continue strengthening our healthcare programs and ensuring quality and accessible healthcare services for every Dagupeño,” Mayor Fernandez said.

The award reflects Dagupan City’s continuing commitment to building a stronger, more responsive, and people centered healthcare system through close collaboration with national agencies, healthcare workers, and community partners.

 

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Features Press Release

LOLA CARES PROGRAM SUPPORTS GRANDMOTHERS RAISING THEIR ‘APOS’ IN DAGUPAN

The Dagupan City Government officially launched “LOLA CARES, WE CARE,” a community based program dedicated to supporting grandmothers raising and caring for their apos while their children work abroad to provide a better future for their families.

The program recognizes the sacrifices of many lolas who serve as second parents inside their homes, providing daily care, guidance, and emotional support to their grandchildren.

Through LOLA CARES, participating grandmothers received access to health services, mental health support, education assistance, free check ups, and registration under PhilHealth, YAKAP, and GAMOT Programs to help strengthen their protection and well being.

Free haircuts for both lolas and apos, free Sustagen, select condiments, Lipton Tea products, and emergency hotline information were also provided during the activity.

A total of 350 grandmothers together with their apos officially registered under the LOLA CARES Program.

Mayor Belen T. Fernandez said the initiative reflects the city government’s continuing commitment to recognizing and supporting grandparents who help keep families together despite the challenges brought by overseas work arrangements.

“Our lolas carry a very important responsibility inside the home. Many of them quietly dedicate their love, strength, and care to raising their grandchildren while the parents are away working for the family’s future. Through LOLA CARES, we want them to feel that they are valued, appreciated, protected, and cared for,” Mayor Fernandez said.

The LOLA CARES Program forms part of the city government’s continuing efforts to strengthen family centered welfare programs and provide greater support for vulnerable sectors in Dagupan City.

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Featured News Features Press Release

DILG GIVES DAGUPAN CITY A PERFECT 100% ‘IDEAL’ RATING FOR CHILD PROTECTION! 

I am very proud to share with everyone that our city has officially received a PERFECT 100% score and the highest “IDEAL” rating in the 2026 Local Council for the Protection of Children (LCPC) Functionality Audit conducted by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 1.

This means so much to all of us because it shows that the care, protection, and support we continue to give our children are truly being felt in our communities, schools, barangays, and homes.

Our LCPC’s recognition reflects the hard work, dedication, and genuine concern of the people and departments who continue working every day to keep our children safe, protected, heard, and cared for.

One of our strongest initiatives is SAFEnet or Secure and Abuse Free Environment, which continues to strengthen our campaign against bullying, abuse, violence, and mental health related concerns involving children and families. Together with our schools, barangays, parents, youth organizations, health workers, law enforcement agencies, and partner institutions, we continue building safer and more supportive communities for every young Dagupeño.

Our investments in education through “Unaen Su Edukasyon,” expanded health and nutrition programs, youth leadership initiatives, and community based protection programs also played an important role in achieving this recognition.

My heartfelt gratitude to our Vice Mayor Bryan Kua and the New Majority Councilors, City Legal Officer Atty. Aurora Valle, City Social Welfare and Development Office, City Health Office, Teen Center, PNP Dagupan Police Office, DepEd, barangays, SAFEnet partners, youth organizations, partner agencies, volunteers, every department, and every unsung hero who helped make this possible.

This recognition belongs to every Dagupeño who continues to stand with us in protecting the lives, welfare, and future of our children.

We will continue protecting, supporting, and standing up for every young Dagupeño.

-Mayor Belen T. Fernandez

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Features Press Release

AQUAX BRINGS FREE SUMMER WATER SPORTS TO DAGUPAN’S BLUE BEACH

In time for the summer season, Dagupan City officially brought back AquaX Dagupan, a limited-time free water sports activity at Bonuan Tondaligan Ferdinand Blue Beach.

Available exclusively on weekends (Saturday-Sunday), the summer program offers exciting water attractions, including the Banana Boat, UFO Ride, and Hurricane Ride, providing residents and visitors with a fun-filled beachside experience during this vacation period.

Mayor Belen Fernandez announced the program on her Facebook page, inviting everyone to “beat the heat” this summer by taking advantage of the free water-sports initiative.

“Hindi kumpleto ang summer mo kapag hindi mo pa nasusubukan ang AquaX Dagupan! Experience the thrill and excitement of our Banana Boat, UFO, at Hurricane Ride kasama ang inyong pamilya at barkada,” the local chief executive said in her Facebook post.

The activity is spearheaded by the Dagupan City Sports Commission led by Sports Development Officer IV Finnela Sim, in coordination with the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), City Health Office, and City Tourism Office, ensuring that the program remains safe, organized, and enjoyable for all participants.

 

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Events Features Press Release

IKA-APAT NA “LECHONAN ED BARANGAY,” UMARANGKADA SA LASIP CHICO

Ipinagdiwang ng lungsod ng Dagupan ang ika-apat na “Lechonan ed Barangay” sa Barangay Lasip Chico noong Mayo 2, kaugnay ng taunang selebrasyon ng kanilang ipinagmamalaking lechon bilang pangunahing produkto ng barangay.

Sa pangunguna ng barangay council sa pamumuno ni Punong Barangay Aldwin Dexter Meneses, katuwang ang SK council ng barangay sa pamumuno ni SK Chairwoman Jenica Venice Ang, matagumpay na naisagawa ang aktibidad kung saan inihaw ang 22 lechon na pinagsaluhan ng mga residente at bisita.

Nakisaya at nagbigay-suporta rin sa programa sina Mayor Belen Fernandez kasama sina Vice Mayor BK Kua, Councilors Michael Fernandez, Atty. Joey Tamayo, Tala Paras, Engr. Karlos Reyna IV, Danee Canto, at Lino Fernandez, SP Secretary Ryan Ravanzo, DCPO City Director Arnold Solomon, at ilang local content creators.

Ayon kay Mayor Belen, kahit nakapunta na siya sa iba’t ibang lugar na naghahanda ng lechon, wala pa ring makakatapat sa lechon ng Lasip Chico na patuloy na binabalik-balikan dahil sa kakaibang sarap, linamnam, at kalidad nito.

Opisyal nang kinilala bilang “Lechon Capital” ng Dagupan City ang Barangay Lasip Chico sa pamamagitan ng City Ordinance 2297-2024, bilang tahanan ng mga pinakamahusay na lechonero sa lungsod.

 

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2026 Bangus Festival Bangus Festival Events Features Press Release

DAGVIBE 2026 REVIVES STREET CULTURE SCENE FOR CITY’S SKATE PARK LAUNCH

After a two year hiatus, DagVibe made its highly anticipated return through a two day celebration held on May 1 and 2 at Bonuan Tondaligan Ferdinand Blue Beach, marking the launch of Dagupan City’s newly opened skate park, the first ever public skate park in Pangasinan.

The event brought together skaters, skimboarders, artists, and street culture enthusiasts from various towns and regions, energizing the city’s growing action sports community through a lineup of dynamic activities.

On May 1, the event opened with morning and afternoon sessions of the Skate Clinic, drawing participants from as young as seven years old to adults aged 19 and above. The momentum carried into Day 2 with the Skate Competition, Mural Board Battle, Skim Competition, and Local Bazaar, culminating in the announcement of winners later in the day.

With the completion of Phase 1, Councilor Engr. Karlos Reyna IV, Committee Chair on Tourism, announced the continued development of the skate bowl and other areas of the street skate park. He also commended Dagupan City Mayor Belen T. Fernandez for leading the project and for strengthening support for the local skating community.

“Itong lahat ng ito ay talagang plinano ng ating napakasipag na Mayor Belen Fernandez. Parte lang po ito sa mas malawak na tourism infrastructure development dito sa Bonuan area at sa buong siyudad ng Dagupan. Layunin po nito na palakasin at pasiglahin ang turismo sa pamamagitan ng infrastructure projects, kasabay ng paglikha ng mga aktibidad para sa ating kabataan,” he said.

The local chief executive shared that, in the past, skaters would gather in front of the Dagupan City Museum due to its smooth and open surface. With the opening of the skate park, she expressed her appreciation that the community now has a dedicated space to skate freely, while reaffirming her commitment to continue developing infrastructure that supports the youth and the local skating scene.

The City Government of Dagupan extends its gratitude to the Dagupan Skate Crew, Agini Kolektibo, Jai Hernandez, Melvin Delos Santos, Troy Casupanan, Eduard Gabrillo, Nathaniel Jovero, and Lorenzo Mencias, along with all event partners and sponsors, for bringing DagVibe back and ensuring the success of the event.

 

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2026 Bangus Festival Events Features Press Release

Run for S.A.F.E 2026 Draws Nearly 20,000 Dagupeños Championing Mental Health and Safer Communities

Thousands of Dagupeños, nearly 20,000 strong, hit the ground running on April 25 for Run for S.A.F.E 2026, marking a strong citywide show of support for Dagupan’s ongoing SAFENET advocacy for mental health awareness and a secure, abuse-free environment (S.A.F.E.).

From CSI Stadia, runners took on the 3KM, 5KM, and 10KM routes along the New De Venecia Road Extension, with top finishers earning medals and cash gift certificates.

Held as part of the month-long Bangus Festival 2026 celebration, the event highlighted the city’s commitment to promoting mental well-being and nurturing a community grounded in safety, respect, and collective action.

Senator Risa Hontiveros, guest of honor and speaker, as well as the key author and principal sponsor of the Mental Health Law during the 17th Congress, which was enacted in 2018, lauded the strong turnout of participants and the advocacy behind the event.

“Nakakatuwa pong makakita ng ganitong pagkilos ng komunidad natin dito sa Dagupan City. Ang pagtakbo rin po natin ngayong umaga dito sa ating fun run ay isa ring dagdag na malaking ambag dahil sa ating pag-fun run, sinasabi po natin na dapat lamang mapag-usapan natin ang mental health at hindi ito dapat ikahiya. Sa ating pag-fun run para sa SAFENET, sinasabi po natin, basagin po natin ang stigma tungkol sa mental health,” the senator shared.

Mayor Belen Fernandez reaffirmed the program’s mission of protecting every Dagupeño from all forms of abuse.

“Kaya ang RUN FOR SAFE ay hindi lamang isang fun run. Ito ay isang paninindigan. Isang deklarasyon na sa Dagupan—ang kaligtasan ay hindi opsyon. Ito ay karapatan.” Fernandez said.

Additionally, the local chief executive emphasized what S.A.F.E truly stands for.

“Ang SAFE ay hindi lamang salita. Ito ay panawagan—Secure and Abuse-Free Environment. Isang lungsod kung saan ang bawat bata ay ligtas maglaro. Kung saan ang bawat babae ay may boses at proteksyon. Kung saan ang bawat pamilya ay may lakas at pag-asa.”

The ceremonial activity was quickly followed by a press conference at CSI Stadia’s Emerald Hall.

Present in the activity were Regional Director of DOH-CHD 1, Dr Paula Paz Sydiongco, Vice Mayor BK Kua, and Councillors Michael Fernandez, Atty. Jose Netu “Joey” Tamayo, Cristel Hilary “Tala” Paras, Jeslito “Jigs” Seen, Engr. Karlos Reyna IV, Danielle Francine “Danee” Canto, Marvin Fabia, Dra. Jalice “Jaja” Cayabyab, Liga ng mga Barangay President Marcelino Fernandez, Sangguniang Kabataan Federation President Bradley Benavides, OIC-Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Marciano Soriano Jr., DILG CLGOO Royolita Rosario, DCPO City Director Arnold Solomon, Convenor of Justice Zone Hon. Dorothy Alarcio-Padilla, R1MC Director Dr. Joseph Roland Mejia, DOH-DTRC Dr. Rosalinda Caoile, DENR CENRO Engr. Noriel Nisperos, PMHA Executive Manager Michael Romero, PIA Dagupan Elisha Marie Arguel, LTO Chief Romel Albert Dawaton, PSA Pangasinan Verna Palsimon, City Prosecutor Atty. Vicky Cabrera, LGU department heads and employees, barangay and SK Councils, teachers, students, Maaron Ina, KATROPA, civic organizations, national agencies, and guests from different cities and towns.

The Local Government Unit of Dagupan expresses its heartfelt gratitude to its partners, Milo, Pocari Sweat, and CSI Group of Companies, for their unwavering support in making this event a success.

Run for S.A.F.E 2026 stood as a powerful expression of unity, compassion, and social responsibility in Dagupan City, reflecting the community’s dedication to building safe and resilient communities for all, while delivering a powerful reminder: HINDI KA NAG-IISA.

 

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2026 Bangus Festival Bangus Festival Events Featured News Features Press Release

BANGUSAN STREET PARTY 2026 RECORDS 10% SURGE IN SPECTATORS

Despite the challenges brought by the conflict in the Middle East, Bangus Festival 2026 successfully concluded with its much-anticipated Bangusan Street Party, drawing a 10% increase in spectators on April 30 along the New De Venecia Road Extension.

On May 1, Dagupan City Mayor Belen Fernandez proudly shared the positive development through her Facebook page, marking a significant milestone for this year’s Bangus Festival celebration.

“Last night proved one thing, lumalakas ang Bangusan Street Party dahil po sa inyo! The crowd was visibly bigger, more engaged, and fully locked in. We recorded a 10% increase in spectators compared to last year! That is real growth, driven by people who chose to come, celebrate, and be part of something bigger,” she said in her Facebook post.

The local chief executive continued by expressing gratitude to all sponsors, offices and partner agencies for their support, commending their valuable contributions in ensuring the smooth flow of activities and the overall success of the event.

Featuring performances from star-studded artists, the different stages attracted thousands of guests and visitors from various parts of the country.

Crowd favorites IV of Spades, Arthur Nery, Maki, Sponge Cola, Elias TV, Fumiya, Yukan, Sky Garden, Klarisse, and Esnyr energized the audience at Stage 1 located at CSI Stadia, while GMA artists headlined Stage 2.

Stage 3, presented by GSM, featured Noel Palomo of Siakol together with Repakol Band and Mikee Quintos, while Pinoy hip-hop sensation Al James captivated the crowd with his hit songs at Stage 4.

Meanwhile, Stage 5, led by Pinas Astig, brought together rap icons Flow G, Skusta Clee, Queen Monica Money, Zsara Laxamana, Flavamatikz, Dash Calzado with Juanway, Psyke with Johpong, Pamoso, Rich Flo, and Cripli vs Hazky, alongside performances from Urbanation.

Stage 6, in partnership with Coke Studio, kept the energy high as The Juans and Imago serenaded festivalgoers with their well-loved hits.

The annual ‘Kalutan ed Dalan’ remained one of the festival’s major highlights as residents and tourists gathered along the streets to grill and share 20,000 Dagupan’s world-class bangus, showcasing the city’s culture, unity, and celebration of its thriving bangus industry.

Earlier that day, the city also welcomed League of Cities of the Philippines National President and San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora for the ceremonial sisterhood signing between Dagupan and San Juan City, held at CSI Stadia, which opened new opportunities for collaboration in education, healthcare, tourism, livelihood, and economic development for both cities.

Mayor Zamora also joined the ceremonial lighting of grills alongside Vice Mayor Bryan “BK” Kua, members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, DOH Regional Director Dr. Paula Paz Sydiongco, DOH Assistant Regional Director Dr. Rosie Pamintuan, Region 1 Medical Center Medical Director Dr. Roland Mejia, Food Terminal Incorporated Vice President for Corporate Affairs Oliver Dicdican, Dr. Ashok Vasandani, PNP Regional Director Dindo Reyes, DCPO officials led by City Director Arnold Solomon, LGU department heads and employees, barangay and SK councils, as well as guests and tourists from different parts of the country.

Dagupan City looks forward to hosting an even bigger and more vibrant celebration next year, offering a more exciting and festive experience for everyone to enjoy.

 

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2026 Bangus Festival Bangus Festival Features Press Release

DAGUPAN AND SAN JUAN OFFICIALLY UNITE AS SISTER CITIES

Today, April 30, marks a meaningful and historic moment as the City of Dagupan proudly welcomes Hon. Francis M. Zamora, Mayor of San Juan City and National President of the League of Cities of the Philippines, for the ceremonial Sisterhood Signing between our beloved cities.

More than just a partnership on paper, this sisterhood symbolizes unity, friendship, cooperation, and a shared commitment to progress and people-centered governance.

Together, Dagupan and San Juan open new opportunities for collaboration in culture, tourism, education, youth development, disaster resilience, economic growth, and public service.

As we continue the vibrant celebration of this year’s Bangus Festival, this milestone reminds us that stronger cities are built through stronger relationships and shared aspirations.

Joining this significant ceremony are San Juan Tourism Officer Brian Geli, former councilor Paul Artadi, Vice Mayor BK Kua, members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, Executive Judge Hon. Dorothy Padilla, City Legal Officer Atty. Aurora Valle, Chief of Staff Luz De Guzman, LGU department heads and employees, DCPO City Director Arnold Solomon, Barangay and SK Councils, civic leaders from the Chinese Chamber of Commerce, SDS Dr. Marciano Soriano with DepEd Officials, BASCA presidents, BHWs, BSPOs, Solo Parents, DFPTA, fishermen, farmers, Maaron Ina, KATROPA, and distinguished guests from both cities.

 

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2026 Bangus Festival Bangus Festival Events Features Press Release

DAGUPAN, INDONESIA PUSH STRONGER BANGUS TRADE TIES

Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia officials on Wednesday, April 29, met with city leaders to explore a partnership aimed at strengthening the bangus industry and expanding aquaculture opportunities.

Mayor Belen T. Fernandez led the reception for the Indonesian delegation, headed by Minister Counsellor for Economic Affairs Sonny Sasongko and Minister Counsellor for Social and Cultural Affairs Avi Dewani Sari Harahap, along with Trade Attaché Rahayu Ningsih.

City officials and employees welcomed the delegation with a flag ceremony, signaling goodwill and openness to collaboration.

Discussions centered on cooperation in aquaculture, particularly milkfish production. Indonesia, one of the world’s major producers of bandeng, shares a parallel industry with Dagupan, widely known for its bangus.

Harahap said both sides could benefit from exchanging knowledge on processing, technology, and product development.

The delegation is also set to visit the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources seafood processing facility to gain firsthand insight into Dagupan’s aquaculture practices.

Fernandez emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration to improve systems and create economic opportunities.

“It is our hope that through partnerships and continued dialogue, we can expand markets, improve technologies, and create lasting opportunities for our fisherfolk and entrepreneurs,” she said.

Milkfish based products were presented during the meeting by local producers, while Indonesian delegates showcased their own innovations, including boneless milkfish, jerky, and floss.

The mayor also invited the delegation to attend the Bangusan Street Party, Kalutan ed Dalan, set on April 30.

The visit concluded with the presentation of a commemorative plaque to the mayor.

Also present were Vice Mayor Dean Bryan Kua, members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, department heads, and representatives from business and civic groups.

 

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