TUAO, Cagayan – The vibrant and joyful PAPPABALAT 2 Festival has shaped the booming town of Tuao, as it celebrated anew the feast of Sto. Angel Dela Guardia on September 24 to October 2.
Thousands of spectators flocked to witness the grand showcase of splendor and pageantry that Tuaoenos are known for.
Mayor William N. Mamba said the nine-day PAPPABALAT 2 Festival is a celebration of thanksgiving and appreciation for the good life that residents of Tuao have been blessed with all these years.
“It demonstrates how Tuaoenos are diligent individuals who put their hearts into the tiresome, mind-numbing labor in the fields in order for the golden grains to be served on the tables throughout the entire year,” he said.
The yearly tree-planting activity organized by Governor Manuel N. Mamba and Mayor Mamba served as the first salvo in Tuao East and Tuao West.
Cagayan Province’ first lady, lawyer Mabel Villarica-Mamba, and the town’s first lady, Judith Matammu-Mamba, joined municipal officials, employees, barangay officials, employees of national agenciesm and Tuaoenos from various sectors in barangay Mambacag and Bulagao, as the celebration of the Holy Mass followed.
As part of the Tuao Patronal Fiesta celebrations, several local products from the different barangays were on show during the opening of the Trade Fair (Garden Fair), which transformed the area into “Little China Town.”
Tuao was first colonized by Chinese people in the 14th century, and trade and commerce grew. Later, Chinese businessmen were converted to Christianity in 1581.
In light of this, preparations are being made to revitalize Chinatown along Calle Commercio with the Department of Tourism funding the park, road and arc.
Tuao Got Talent Season, Little Miss Tuao 2023, Miss Tuao 2023, Playground demo street dance by high school students at Leonardo N. Mamba (LNM) Gym 1, Retro Dance, Flavored Sinabalu Cooking Contest, and Barangay Night Cosplay events were also held.
The 24 gorgeous contestants for Little Miss Tuao 2023 and the 17 stunning contestants for Miss Tuao search were among the future stars of the town on display. The excitement was palpable as these young women, who are brimming with hopes and aspirations, personified the vibrant energy, rich culture, and promising future of Tuao town.
“This occasion is more than just a beauty contest; it’s a celebration of the goals, opportunities, and hopes of Tuao’s youth,” organizers said.
The inaugural Endurocross competition, which was organized by Mayor Mamba with his son William Bill M. Mamba, the race chief director, took place in barangay Lallayug. Spectators were enthralled as they watched motorcycle riders race across the challenging course that included arid terrain and wooded areas.
The CarMotor Show, which is located next to LNM Gym 1, displayed modern automotive and motorcycle technology. The exhibition tested consumer response to innovative and daring concepts that could be mass-produced. New car models, concept vehicles, and vintage cars that are no longer in production were on display.
The Kabataan night was a spot of fun and excitement showcasing the youth’s talents and performances through a literary-musical variety show. Everyone around enjoyed and had fun during the Palarong Bayan too.
A Disney parade featuring Miss Tuao 2023 and candidates on October 2, Feast day of Angel Dela Guardia, and a raffle draw participated in by locals followed.
The residents thoroughly appreciated the celebration, which was brimming with pleasure and laughter.
