Binmaley: “Fishbowl of Pangasinan” tag
1st Sigay Festival
BINMALEY—The time has come for the “Fishbowl of Pangasinan” to be recognized.
Adding to the growing list of big and distinct fiesta celebrations in the province, the municipal government here is set to hold a grand street party during its fiesta celebration on Feb. 2 with its first Sigay Festival showcasing the variety of fish species and other seafood varieties that abound in this town, both in its natural waters and fishponds.
Sigay is a Pangasinan word that refers to fishing equipment, act of catching fish or the process of culturing fish.
Mayor Sammy Rosario said the Sigay Festival aims to highlight the fact that small-scale fishermen can earn a decent living using only their environment-friendly sigay because there is enough fish to catch after the municipal government enforced a ban on illegal fishpens.
This town used to be known for its Pangasinan Fish Center but heavy taxes on fish consignacion imposed by previous administrations forced traders to transfer their operations in Dagupan.
Rosario is making an effort to build a new fish center here using a P10-million loan from a government bank while talks have been initiated with traders to reestablish their operations here.
Data provided by Butch Ferrer, municipal agriculturist, show that the town has 2,750 hectares of fishpond devoted to bangus with average production of 7,523.5 metric tons per year that translates to an annual income of more than P752 million.
There are about 2,283 bangus operators here.
For malaga (siganid), there are 220 hectares for its production and 791 hectares for prawns.
During the fiesta, tables and chairs will be set up around the main processional streets surrounding the town hall and three live bands have been hired to provide entertainment.
Each table, which will come with grill pads and fresh fish, will cost P1,500. and revelers can also bring their own food for the evening’s barbecue party.#
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