THE Mapandan local government is now in the thick of preparations for the staging of a new Pandan Festival set on March 16-25 to showcase an array of more exciting and unique events.

Mapandan Mayor Karl Christian Vega said the people of Mapandan and the town’s Balikbayans will see a more fun-filled festival after three years of suspension due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Kailangan na rin natin ngayong mag-upgrade,” Mayor Vega said, as he revealedthat he invited the choreographers of the nationally-acclaimed Dinagyang Festival to share their winning moves with the Tribu Pandan street dancers, who already won in “Festivals of the North” Street Dancing Competition.

There will be six street dancing contingents representing other festivals expected to join the street dancing competition, while the Panagbenga Festival and the Tribu Pandan contingents will perform for exhibitions on March 24.  Public Affairs Consultant Jim Hernando said all the street dancers will perform simultaneously for a “Unity Dance” to the tune of the Magdiwang Mapandan Jingle.

Another new feature will be the “Biskeg-Peles” Relay, a new version of triathlon to be held on March 21, involving three-man teams that will require them to swim through the Angalacan River, ride a bike and run to the finish line, passing on a wrist band to the finish line each time.

“After this, we will introduce the Biskeg-Peles as a nationwide sporting event,” the mayor said.

“La Familia Farm Relay,” another family event will be held to highlight the Farmer’s Festival on March 19 at the Children’s Park where 15 barangays will be represented by five family members composed of a grandfather, a father, mother and children with individual tasks.

The much-awaited Search for Mutya ng Mapandan 2023 will have 15 beauty contestants presented during the pre-pageant on March 16 in their crafted Pandan-inspired attire.  The pageant Night proper will be held on March 23 at the Mapandan Public Auditorium.

A joint Alumni Night of the four public schools in Mapandan will be held while private schools organize their respective alumni night celebrations.

Other events for the 10-day Pandan Festival include Labi na Pisasalamat, Civic Parade, Drum & Bugle Exhibition, Coronation Night for Mrs. Mapandan International, Tree Planting, Community and Cultural Night, Misa na Pisasalamat ed Patron San Jose, Mapandan Central School Alumni Night, Zarzuela ed Baley, Pawil Mapandan (Balikbayan Night), Dulang Pandan (Pandan Cookfest), Zumba Day and a Medical Mission.

The 10-day event will be culminated by the Labi na Ligliwa tan Musika, a concert party featuring two popular rock bands: Asunta and I Belong to the Zoo. (Orpheus M. Velasco)

Share your Comments or Reactions

comments

Powered by Facebook Comments