By Eva C. Visperas

 

THE annual Talong Festival of Villasis, Pangasinan is a grand tradition that lights up the 2nd week of January each year. Known as the “Vegetable Bowl of Pangasinan,” Villasis takes immense pride in its eggplant and other pinakbet veggies production, and the festival stands as a testament to this agricultural richness.

The festival’s main focus is the humble talong (eggplant), which thrives in Villasis’ fertile soil.

We bumped into Engr. Rosendo So, the founding chairman of the Abono Partylist, who was among the prominent figures who joined the festivities on January 16. So is an advocate for Filipino farmers and a staunch defender of their rights and welfare.

Villasis’ farmers are indeed blessed with an area rich in natural resources, but they face challenges such as rising costs, climate uncertainties, and market volatility. Engr. So’s candid conversations with government leaders, including the President and agriculture secretary, have consistently raised awareness about these pressing issues, ensuring that solutions are sought and implemented.

The yearly Talong Festival is far more than just a celebration of agriculture. It is a cultural and social event that unites all sectors of Villasis. According to Mayor Nato Abrenica, who has been a driving force behind the festival since its inception many years ago, the event is a tribute to the hardworking farmers who nourish the community.

“Mabuhay ang Villasis!” he exclaims in our interview, a phrase that encapsulates the town’s pride and unity. From the opening day to the grand finale, excitement filled the air, and the spirit of togetherness was palpable.

One of the highlights of the festival is the support it provides to farmers. This year, nearly 3,000 Villasis farmers received vital assistance, including agricultural machinery, fertilizers, and certified seeds. Year after year, such aid has been constant.

While Mayor Abrenica’s leadership has been integral to the success of the festival, it’s his wife, former Mayor Dita Abrenica, who plays an equally crucial role. Known as “Mayora Dita,” she has been a pillar of the community since her tenure as mayor, and she remains heavily involved in the Talong Festival’s activities.

Her contributions go beyond organizational work; she has been at the forefront of the Talong Cookfest dedicated to further promoting this versatile vegetable and preserving Villasis’ culinary heritage.

Mayora Dita is also deeply involved in the Ladies Brigade (LAB) of Villasis, an organization she has supported since its inception in 2001. Their participation in the festival ensures that the entire town — regardless of age or gender — has a voice in its activities.

As a seasoned observer of the festival, I have had the privilege of witnessing its growth over the years. What once started as a simple local gathering has blossomed into a vibrant and multifaceted event, complete with street dancing, cook-offs, beauty contests, and more.

This year, the search for Mrs. Villasis 2025 was a highlight, with the winner, Madam Raquel Chan- Obieta, raising a staggering P7 million for the town. This amount was part of the P12 million raised in total, with proceeds earmarked for vital community projects, including infrastructure development and improvements to public spaces.

The funds raised through events like Mrs. Villasis do more than just create a buzz — they are channeled into tangible projects that have long-lasting benefits for the town. In the past, these funds have contributed to the construction of the new town hall, a legislative building, a modern auditorium, and kids’ playground, among others. The development of these infrastructures reflects the festival’s dual purpose: celebrating Villasis’ agricultural identity while also investing in the town’s future.

As the final fireworks of this year’s Talong Festival faded, one thing was clear: the event is more than just a celebration — it’s a vital part of Villasis’ continued development and a symbol of its thriving community spirit.

In every talong harvested, every dish served, and every competition won, the spirit of Villasis shines through. As the town looks forward to next year’s festival, one thing is certain: the Talong Festival will continue to be a proud tradition that reflects the resilience, innovation, and heart of this remarkable community.

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