• ANDREW ALTAREJOS
Barangay Guimbala-on in Silay City, Negros Occidental marked its annual fiesta with the successful staging of the first-ever Bala-onan Festival on May 15, drawing ten competing groups to the street and arena dance competitions.
Among the ten competing groups that participated in the Bala-onan Festival street and arena dance competition, Tribu Rosario, emerged as the festival’s inaugural grand champion. The group also swept minor awards, including Best in Street, Best in Costume, Best in Production Design, Best in Bala-on Presentation, Best Choreographer, and Best in Choreography.
Named first runner-up was Tribu Herminal, while Tribu Gina, settled for second runner-up. In the minor awards category, Tribu San Rafael, took home the Best in Banner trophy.
Guimbala-on Barangay Captain Samuel Larida, together with the entire council was overwhelmed with the performances of the participating tribes. The performances were beyond expectations, considering a limited budget for the first staging of the festival. Trophies and cash prizes were awarded to all the winners during the awarding ceremony.
Among those in attendance were Silay City Councilors Paolo Tiongco, Mike Maravilla, and Noynoy Penuela. Also present were Barangay Council members Patrick Perez, Maricar Caldera, Noel Denosta, Reuel Tura, Elena Denosta, Cheryl Casipe, and Mary Jean Nato. Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Chairperson Lovely Vibero and event organizer Joren Laudit was also present at the occasion.
With the success of its debut, residents and local leaders alike have expressed hope that the Bala-onan Festival will become an enduring annual tradition – one that not only honors Guimbala-on’s cultural roots but also boosts local tourism and community solidarity in the years to come.*
