LUNA, Apayao – Luna comes alive as they kick off their very first Rambak Ni Mannalon Festival, a celebration that pays tribute to the local farmers.
The festival was formerly known as Panagapit Ken Panagyaman but has been rebranded to embrace a new era of festivities and innovation.
Originally scheduled from July 27 to 29, the festival faced an unforeseen challenge when Super Typhoon Egay loomed over the northern portion of the country. In the interest of safety and to ensure the success of the event, the municipal government decided to reschedule the festival to run from July 31 to August 2 that will take place at the BGVJr. Memorial Sports Complex in Poblacion.
With the theme “Our Farmers, Our Progress, Our Future,” the festival aims to recognize the tireless efforts of the local farmers who have been the backbone of the town’s progress.
The festival program is filled with activities that highlight the essence of Luna’s culture and agriculture. On July 31, a float parade, featuring nine (9) creatively decorated floats, will set the streets aglow with colorful exhibitions. The day will also witness the opening of Partuat ni Mannalon, an exhibit showcasing the bountiful produce cultivated by local farmers. An ecumenical service will take place to seek blessings for a successful celebration, followed by the opening program that marks the official commencement of the festival.
As the sun sets on July 31, the celebration continues and takes a cultural turn with a spectacle of the Isnag Attire Competition, where the candidates for Libnos ti Luna will showcase traditional costumes. The evening will also feature Creative Folk Dance performances and the Pre-Pageant of the Libnos ti Luna 2023 as the 23 candidates will start to compete for the elusive crown.
On August 1, the festival turns to the arts and fashion scene with the Dancesport Competition, where locals will showcase their dance skills. The Abel ti Luna Fashion Show on the other hand, will exhibit the exquisite textiles of the locality. The day will also witness the much-anticipated Search for Bituen ti Luna, a pageant that crowns the brightest young star of Luna who will symbolize the town’s hope for the future.
The festival’s grand finale on August 2 vows to be an unforgettable experience as the energy rises with the Streetdance Parade, Street Dance Showdown, and Solidarity Dance, uniting the community in rhythm and harmony. Meanwhile, the Cookfest provides a delightful gastronomic experience, and the Awarding of Best Gulayan sa Barangay recognizes the green thumbs behind the best backyard gardens.
Finally, the culmination of the festival will be marked by the highly anticipated Search for Libnos ti Luna 2023, the main highlight that will crown the epitome of Luna’s beauty and grace. By JCM
