MAGALANG -- Hundreds of local and foreign tourists are expected to troop to this vibrant Pampanga town for the annual "Pyestang Camaru" or cricket festival on August 21 to 24.
Mayor Malu Paras-Lacson said the four-day event will start Tuesday, August 21, with the "Pulaying Camaru" (color run) at 4 a.m., which will be followed by institutional float and multisectoral parades.
On August 22, local cooks will showcase their culinary skills in serving crickets in the inter-barangay cooking competition or "Calutong Camaru" at the town plaza.
There will also be a tattoo competition (Dutdutan Camaru) at the Bren Z. Guiao Memorial Sports Complex followed by the "Camaru Got Talent" competition at the town plaza.
Lacson said that on August 23, students will assemble at the Magalang Memorial Park going to the parade route to showcase their dancing skills and colorful costumes in the inter-school street dancing competition and inter-school free dance competition with Republika ng TM Ambassador TJ Marquez.
On Friday, August 24, the second mayor's inter-barangay basketball tournament will open at the Bren Z. Guiao gym followed by the TM Republikaravan Night featuring Aegis and Chocolate Factory at the town plaza.
Lacson said this year's theme is "Magalenos, Misanmetung Queng Panyulung Ban Kamtan Ing Pamagbayung Pangarapan."
She said she is inviting locals from nearby towns and cities, as well as foreign guests to visit this once sleepy town which is now a vibrant and developing municipality.
"Everyone is welcome to join us in our upcoming fiesta celebration. It will truly be a memorable experience for the whole family to enjoy," Lacson said. (Chris Navarro)