Adivay Festival kicks off with Search for Mr and Ms Benguet

By Francis Likigan Jr.

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet – The month-long Adivay Festival kicked off here Nov. 4 highlighted by presention of aspirants ot Search for Mr and Miss Benguet. 

This, after ecumenical service wherein Pastor Saturnino Galino emphasized that prayer and the word of God are vital elements in facing challenges of ASEAN economic integration next year.

Following this, Gov. Nestor B. Fongwan formally declared opening of the festival in front of the provincial capitol.

Later candidates to Search for Mr. and Ms Benguet were presented to the press who asked them questions related to their lives, activities, government, among others.  

Contestants included Clint Gambulao Buelta and Anjanette Wagayan Nilva of Atok, Robbin Kim Lingling Balakiao and Eden Das-ilen Daguasi of Bakun, Jeoffrey Begseng Galasgas and Berlyn Esnara Olas of Bokod, Clizer Sacla Esteban and Maridel Palbuza Langbis of Buguias, Jean Roskow Marcos Madarang and Shin joy Mendoza Palonan of Itogon, Jhaymer Poalle Bangsi-il Sicmat and Cherry Ann Kamora Baliw-an of Kabayan.

Others were Carlos Leo Ampeso Leganio and Karryl Febie Benito Poncian of Kapangan, Vermar Bogsit Agdasi and Myleen Paleng Epie of Kibungan, Leam Ferdy Alvarez Esteban and Ericha Joy Anamong Gonadan of La Trinidad, Kne Bosoy Bolislis and Aljeane Gayl Totanes Mendoza of Mankayan, Orlie Luis Peter and Nicole Cajican Cayadi of Sablan, Bren Jorell Abrera Maritnez and Joemay-an Bugotng Leo of Tuba, Carl Duane Cosalan Sibelius and Jemimah Ventura Bantiles of Tublay.

All 26 candidates represented the 13 municipalities of Benguet.

Part of the activity included ethnic wear or native attire competition, wherein candidates showed their best ethnic wear.

Members of the press selected the  Darling of the Press for  Adivay 2014 but winners would be announced during coronation night  on Nov. 22,  here at the Benguet Sports Center  Multi purpose gym at Barangay Wangal.

The event was also attended by officials of 13 Benguet municipalities, provincial officials, regional line agencies, and sectoral representatives.

The program ended with a sumptuous lunch.