PORO, CEBU – This town in Camotes Islands celebrated its vibrant culture and tradition with the inaugural staging of the Panagbagat Festival at its Central School grounds on the evening of October 26.
Panagbagat, meaning “coming together,” commemorates the historic peace agreement between the warring tribes of Tag Anito from the west and the Maktang tribe from the east brokered under the wise counsel of Panganuron long time ago.
“You have gone a long, long way,” Gov. Gwen Garcia said in her speech. “Isip inahan, nalipay kaayo ko sa akong nakita nga kaya, mahimo sa mga Porohanon.”
Joining the Governor here are Board Member Glenn Soco, Tudela Mayor Jojo Solante, San Francisco Mayor Al Arquillano, and Gov. Gwen’s daughter Carissa.
In support of the Panagbagat Festival, Gov. Garcia, along with Deputy Speaker and Fifth District Congressman Duke Frasco, contributed a total of over P4.47 million in financial aid and subsidies.
The Capitol set aside P3 million for the LGU, headed by Mayor Gary Rama, in order to defray its various socio-cultural expenses. Additionally, the four groups from clustered barangays that joined the maiden festival each received P300,000 in support.
For his part, Deputy Speaker Frasco provided an extra P130,000 for the top four contingents, awarding P50,000 for first place winner; P40,000 for the second placer; P30,000 for third placer; and P10,000 for fourth placer.
Gov. Garcia was moved by the performances and dedication of the Porohanons that she matched the deputy speaker’s assistance, contributing an additional P140,000 for the clustered contingents from her own private funds.
She also rewarded the top finisher with P50,000; the second placer with P40,000; while the third placer got P30,000; and another P20,000 for the fourth place winner.
“Dili ko modali-dali og sulti kon para nako, it does not deserve such words. This is really one of the best festival presentations sa kadaghan nako nga giadtoan,” Gov. Gwen added.
The Panagbagat Festival is held in honor of the town’s patron saint, Santa Maria del Rosario. | BJR