‘Pandan Festival’ wins in Pangasinan battle of festivals

By Jojo Riñoza

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan — Street dancers representing the “Pandan Festival” of Mapandan town won the “Parada na Luyag” contest of the 437th Pangasinan Day celebration and took home the hefty prize of P100,000.

“Parada na Luyag” is the convergence of all street dancing champions of Pangasinan’s various local festivals. “This is like the battle of champions of festivals,” said Provincial Tourism Officer Malu Elduayan.

For the “Tribu Pandan,” it was a victorious comeback in the competition as it topped 15 street dancing contingents after a seven-year absence.

Taking second place in the competition was the “Talong Festival” streetdancers of Villasis town, known as the “Vegetable Bowl of Pangasinan,” taking home the P75,000 cash prize.

The town of Mabini came in third place. They danced illustrating the deep faith of their town folks to their patron Señor Sto. Niño amidst the difficulties and misfortunes they experienced.

Completing the winner’s circle in this year’s competition were Lingayen’s “Bagoong” Festival, Balungao’s “Goat Festival” and Bayambang’s “Malangsi Festival.”