By Leilanie G. Adriano
LAOAG CITY, Feb 9 (PNA) — A grand float parade depicting the Ilocano’s timeless culture and tradition highlights this year’s 19th Pamulinawen festival grand parade held Monday, Feb. 9 at the Provincial Capitol outdoor stage.
A day before the February 10 feast of Saint William the Hermit, Laoagueńos including guests and visitors are eager to watch the parade of floats categorized into big and small floats that depict the Ilocanos’ unique culture and tradition.
Participated in by the different villages, local business establishments, hotels and schools, the 2015 Pamulinawen grand parade features Laoag City’s years of struggle and survival as it transcends from once a laid back town to a bustling metropolis with its Ilocano culture and traditions still kept and preserved.
In her speech, mayor Chevylle Farińas lauded the Laoageńous’ as being resilient, resourceful, productive, creative and innovative characters, which led to the city’s economic growth and development along with the cooperation of all stakeholders.
As the city continues its journey towards prominence and excellence, Farińas reiterated that reaching its 50th year as a city has earned a reputation, distinction and grandeur not only to Laoageńous in the city but to all around the world.
For the big float category, winners in this year’s grand parade with a cash prize ranging from P80,000 to P5,000 are: M. Lhuillier (1st prize), Barangay 27 (2nd prize), Java Hotel (3rd prize), North Point Motors (4th prize), and Northwestern University (5th prize).
For the small float category, Darasdas village in Solsona town emerged as the grand slam winner as it brought home this year a grand prize worth P40,000 with its creative use of indigenous materials, depicting Ilocanos’ artistry and craftsmanship. Other winners include Barangay 27 in Laoag, Barangay Bagbag in Solsona and Pamulinawen hotel in neighboring San Nicolas town.(PNA)