OFF the peninsular coast of western Cebu lies the magnificent coral formations that have made Moalboal the capital for diving on the island.
This well-endowed town has become a major tourist attraction in the region due to its famous beaches and rich marine life.
All of this municipal pride emerged from the sea during Pasigarbo 2023 when Moalboal introduced the “Kagasangan Festival” to compete with 15 other towns and cities in the province’s Festival of Festivals.
The town’s contingent wore bright-colored gems and petal accessories, mimicking the corals of the sea, while the gigantic props depicted images of underwater reef formations.
Behind the town’s contingent were the creative minds of Clint Placencia for choreography, Gani Villarojo for music, and other local artists for costumes and props.
The dance itself reflected the beauty of Moalboal’s natural resources with a fast-paced beat.
The story conveyed Moalboalohanon’s gratitude to God for the natural resources.
The contingent was a collaborative effort by the entire town with the support of the Municipal Council, the barangay chiefs, the teachers and staff of the public schools, and other supporters.
The “Kagasangan Festival” secured seventh place in the “Best Festival” category for Pasigarbo 2023, while its Festival Queen, Michelle Oppliger, finished fourth as Pasigarbo Festival Queen.
Moalboal Mayor Inocentes “Titing” Cabaron expressed in his introductory speech for the “Kagasangan Festival” that the town is blessed with many natural resources, from the wind and fresh air to the bodies of water, the sea, and the rich agricultural soil.
Beyond natural resources, the town also has an abundant supply of kind-hearted and generous supporters.
Mayor Cabaron expressed gratitude to his wife, Yvonne Cabaron, for the inspiration and proactive support; to Vice Mayor Paz Ragoni for providing snacks; Councilor Marcelino Deniega for the continuous supply of firewood; Councilor Susan Billones for the additional wing vans, and the rest of the Sangguniang Bayan members for their collaborative support.
The town also thanks Engr. Allan Quirante of QM Builders for the wing vans; Perrelos Barangay Captain Edgar Rensulat for allowing the use of their barangay gym for practice; the teachers of Perrelos Elementary School, with Principal Farrah Boltron, for accommodating the team; and the artists behind the props, float, and video introduction.
The teachers of SJHS, CTU, and MNHS also coordinated to help the contingent complete its performance, while the police, disaster responders, and medical team led by Dr. Nicol Machacon and Dr. Jovine Martin ensured the contingent’s safety and health.
As the town showcased its festival at Pasigarbo 2023, it served as a reminder of unity within the town that has contributed to its current progress, showing the entire Cebu that Moalboal is a town worth celebrating.