Filipinos are identified to be one of the happiest citizens in Asia. They know how to have a good time and that is by sharing happiness with other people. Because of their hospitality, many tourists keep coming back for a great vacation or even live permanently in the Philippines. There are many wonderful tourist spots in the country that foreigners will definitely enjoy and festivals that they, too can celebrate. One of these festivals is the Pamulinawen Festival, which is held in “the place of clarity” or simply, Laoag City in the province of Ilocos Norte.
Pamulinawen is held every year on the 10th of February on the Feast of St. William the Hermit, who is the patron saint of the city. The festival is celebrated to honor and thank the compassion and generosity of St. William. It is believed that through his communication and connection to the Lord, the city of Laoag was saved from catastrophes and calamities. It is notable for its dance parades and flower presentations. There are also cultural activities that exhibit Filipino customs and traditions through songs, dances and dramas mainly from the ethnic group of Ilocanos.
Among the highlights of the Pamulinawen Festival are the following:
1. The so-called Dulang Food Festival confirm that Filipinos, particularly those who are from Laoag are certainly good cooks. During this activity, people gather around and have food sampling, where everyone who attended can taste each food that has been made. The foreigners should not worry. Even though the foods are unfamiliar and may seem exotic, the Laoagueños’ indigenous cuisines are extremely delicious.
The Dulang Festival was first known as the Pinakbet and Bawang Festival, which started in the year 2000. It was then changed to Dulang because of its wider range in the cooking arts. Annually, when this food festival takes place, the people of Laoag display a different contraption for the whole world to see. One of them is the longest longanisa, which was more than 7, 260 feet. Other showcases are the Silyasi or in English, the big vat where there was plenty of cooked food and the biggest banga or clay pot. In 2003, they showed basi or wine from sugar cane and tinudok or generally known as the barbecued foods.
2. The Pamulinawen Festival is not complete with no the Street Pageantry, which is deemed to be the highlight of the said event. Each time the pageants take place; they manage to attracts a huge crowd. Clearly, Laagueños are pageant-aficionados. There are also cultural dances and dramas during the presentation. This has been sponsored by the National Commission for Culture and Arts and the KANNAWIDA Foundation.
3. Drum and Lyre Competitions are also being held during the festival. People from the city particularly those who are in high school join the competition with their band. Commonly, every school in Laoag had a representative and they are being judged by their creativity and rhythm in music using only the drums and lyres. The competitors practice fervently to reach their goal of winning. Prizes at stake are oftentimes in cash and even recognition from the government body of Laoag.
4. The Civic and Military Parade are also part of the Festival. This festival is usually the occasion that starts up the festival along with the opening of the Agro-Industrial Fair. The Parade is usually made up of people who are in the military and they wear their uniforms. There are also majorettes and bands that play along to theme of the parade.
5. The Mountain Bike Race is a challenge held for the people of Laoag but they can be joined by visitors, too. This is extremely good for the heart and provides exercise for those who need it. Usually, the participants are gathered in the city hall and the City Hall Bikers are the one in charge of the occasion.
6. The Calesa Festival’s location is usually in the Provincial Capitol Outdoor Stage. A calesa is a two-wheeled vehicle maneuvered by a horse. During the event, this traditional carriage is being glorified. They are decorated with lavish decorations and paraded around the main city.
Truly, Laoag City is the place to be. With the many activities and colorful presentations like the Pamulinawen Festival, tourists will be fascinated with the beauty of the city. Going to Laoag is a real experience worth cherishing.
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