Politicians banned from town fiesta

POLITICIANS are now forbidden to campaign during public festivals not only in Baguio City, but also in this Tadian, Mt. Province.

Mayor Anthony Wooden Sr. said they will follow the “No Epal” policy of the City of Baguio in celebrating their 5th Ayyoweng di Lambak ed Tadian.

He said politicians must avoid controlling and managing the festival, because it was initiated by the people of the town, adding that it is the people who own the festival not the officials running it.

The local chief executive said several national politicians were invited, but have not received confirmation of those attending yet.

In Baguio City, organizers of Panagbenga (which is ongoing) earlier told politicians not to use the festival as a campaign venue.

They urged politicians to behave and avoid wearing campaign clothing. Politicians were also banned in distributing campaign flyers, tarpaulins, and posters.

The Ayyoweng di Lambak, which is a yearly thanksgiving celebration of Tadian, aims to showcase cultural practices of the people in the area.

Aside from boosting the socio–economic aspect and strengthening the inter–local government unit and agency relationships of Tadian, it also aims to enhance public participation, unity and camaraderie among the natives.

Wooden said on December 10, 2008, the festival was named “Ayyoweng di Lambak” after several names suggested.

Wooden is inviting the public to witness their four–day celebration which includes a civic parade and opening program in March 2; Balikbayans Day in March 3; and a street dancing and cultural performances in March 4.

Wooden said there will also be a community eating to be followed by concluding rites, adding that during the celebration, indigenous games and a mass wedding will also be held.