SANTA MARCELA, Apayao – A new chapter is set to unfold as Santa Marcela celebrates its 57th Founding Anniversary and the 20th Balangkoy Festival on June 15-17, 2024.
With the theme “Pursuits Towards Local Prosperity – A Collective Responsibility,” the celebration highlights the combined efforts of Santa Marcela’s people in their quest for local progress and prosperity.
The Santa Marcela Local Government Unit (LGU) has organized numerous events to engage the community, promote unity, and showcase the town’s achievements through inclusive governance.
The festivities will commence on June 15, 2024, featuring a float parade, ecumenical thanksgiving service, presentation and sashing of Libnos and Taer ti Santa Marcela candidates by respective Punong Barangays, launching of an Agro-Industrial Fair, and People’s Night.
On June 16, the celebrations will include a cook fest, Santa Marcela Motocross challenge, tree-hugging and awarding of chainsaw registration certificates, and a pre-pageant with an interview for 26 candidates.
The final day, June 17, will feature a Drum and Lyre competition, a street dancing competition, and the Search for Libnos and Taer Ti Santa Marcela 2024.
Santa Marcela invites everyone to partake in the festivities, promising delightful cuisine and cultural events. The motocross challenge will be held at Serenio’s Racetrack in Barangay Marcela, while the EKB Memorial Sports Center and Municipal Grounds in San Carlos, Santa Marcela, Apayao will host other events.
The Balangkoy Festival celebrates the thriving cassava farming community that transformed the once idle lands of Santa Marcela, Apayao. By Krizza Joy Castillo