BY: MARSHAL ALEJO, GRACIELLE GAOAT, AND RON MARC MARANAN (BENGUET STATE UNIVERSITY INTERNS)
The streets of Kilometer 5 and 6 in La Trinidad, Benguet, came alive with color and music as the 44th Strawberry Festival featured its much-anticipated drum & lyre performances and float parade on March 22.
Spectators, both locals and tourists, eagerly watched the parade, which highlighted the town’s culture and creativity.
“It’s great to see the cultural groups showcasing our heritage. The float parade also displayed the creativity of each barangay,” said Narcisa Canabe, a local resident.
Five drum & lyre groups and ten cultural groups performed, each representing La Trinidad’s rich strawberry industry and traditions.
“It feels good to preserve our culture through performances. Even though we didn’t win, we’re happy we got to showcase our heritage,” said performer Jilleane Gale Ambola.
A total of 18 floats adorned with strawberries and flowers paraded through the streets. Seven floats competed in the “Valley of Colors” category, while nine were part of the “Pro-Environment” category.
Some floats featured notable landmarks, such as Barangay Tawang’s float, which depicted Mt. Kalugong and Mt. Yangbew. Barangay Bahong presented a giant rose, while Barangay Alno showcased an oversized teapot and cup.
One of the standout floats was Barangay Balili’s giant strawberry design with the message “Save Balili River.”
“We want to raise awareness about keeping the river clean and making sure our community is responsible for its protection,” said Barangay Kagawad Llyod Aswigue.
In the drum & lyre competition, Puguis Elementary School won the championship, with Buyagan securing first place and Lubas Elementary School taking second.
Meanwhile, the “Creative Performance of the Year” award went to San Jose High School Cultural Group, while the Tongtongan Cultural Performing Arts group was named “Performer of the Year.”
The winners of the float competition will be announced on March 28, marking the conclusion of the festival.
This year’s theme, “Semek La Trinidad” (Love La Trinidad), aims to highlight the town’s culture, tourism, and environmental advocacy.
