• ANDREW ALTAREJOS
An ultimate barangay showdown took center stage as seven vibrant festivals from different barangays in Victorias City brought their unique stories, culture, and heritage to life through colorful performances during the first-ever Kadalag-an sang Kabaranggayan: Battle of Best Festivals, held at the Victorias City Plaza recently.
The participating barangays and their festivals were the Hilinugyaw Festival of Barangay XIII, Ati-Atihan Festival of Barangay VII, Kasadyahan Festival of Barangay XX, Hili-ugyon Festival of Barangay VI, Baybayanon Festival of Barangay VI-A, Kalag-Kalag Festival of Barangay XXI, and Gintuna-an Festival of Barangay IX.
Kalag-Kalag Festival of Barangay XXI, was declared this year’s grand champion, besting six other barangay festivals. The festival featured a unique presentation of the different traditions Filipinos observe for All Souls’ Day. The group received a championship trophy and a P20,000 cash prize.
Baybayanon Festival of Barangay VI-A, was named first runner-up and received a runner-up trophy and a P15,000 cash prize. Meanwhile, Hili-ugyon Festival of Barangay VI, was second runner-up and also received a runner-up trophy and a P10,000 cash prize.
The event was attended by SP Committee Chairman on Tourism, Trade, Commerce, and Industry Councilor Jappy Cuaycong, who delivered his welcome message before the start of the competition.*
