THOUSANDS of locals found their way to the main streets of the town of Pulupandan to celebrate the start of another century for the coastal community, and also, highlight their resiliency and hard work, through a festival dedicated to celebrating fishing - their main source of livelihood.
Salapan Festival focuses on fishing, sauteed shrimp paste production, the significance of biodiversity and marine life.
For this year, eight groups participated in the highly anticipated Street and Arena Dance Competition. The performing groups were composed of clustered barangays namely Tribu Habagatnon, Kasidlak, Pisikan, Buso, Mandaragat, Noracyndot, Bubulad, and Maming.
It was a feast to the eyes to watch colorful representations of marine life and a bigger than life dance concepts about saving the waters and conserving aquatic life. The winners include Best in Costume, Noracyndot; Best in Street Dance, Maming; Most Disciplined and Best in Choreography, Buso. Major awards winners are 2nd runner-up, Noracyndot; 1st runner-up, Mandaragat; and champion, Tribu Buso.
For the first time, the town staged the inaugural search dubbed as Salapan Queen 2018. All 12 ladies competed in major segments, like the highly anticipated gown competition, the fiesta feels courtesy of the production number round, and a display of athleticism and body form through the swimwear portion.
On a personal note, it was such an honor to work side by side with Miss Philippines Earth 2013 Queen Angelee delos Reyes, a stunning figure who sashayed with eloquence and wit throughout the more than two-hour production as host.
In the end, Aira Marie Doronila emerged as the new queen as she paraded with so much elegance in the gown competition. A local of Pulupandan, she underscored leadership that is based on skills and principles and not on gender.
This week, the new queen will join A-Listed TV on Piaya Network for a live interview and interaction with fans. Piaya Network is a proud partner and sponsor of Pulupandan's Salapan Festival.