BANGAR, La Union (PIA) – The second annual Parade of Lights on Dec. 23 illuminated the streets of Bangar, featuring floats that celebrated global cultures and local heritage as part of the Abel-Panday Festival.
With the theme “A Journey Around the World,” the floats showcased customs, landmarks, and traditions from various Asian countries, blending international flair with Bangar’s cultural pride.
Rodrigo Sarmiento, Jr., Public Employment Service Office manager, emphasized the event’s role in connecting the town’s traditions with global cultures.
“Last year, we focused on flora and fauna, but this year we wanted to take a different approach by focusing on the cultures of the world. It’s about creating connections and learning from the richness of other people’s traditions while still celebrating our own,” Sarmiento added.
Spotlight on Bangar’s local products
The Parade of Lights not only celebrated international cultures but also highlighted the town’s prized heritage products—Abel handwoven cloth and Panday blacksmithing. These traditions were beautifully showcased in the floats, blending global themes with local craftsmanship.
Abel fabrics, from traditional garments to modern creations, and Panday artistry were featured prominently, emphasizing Bangar’s commitment to preserving its cultural legacy.
The parade also showcased the town’s growing tourism sector, with floats spotlighting local products and tourist destinations. This contributed to a significant economic boost, with increased tourism revenue benefiting local businesses, artisans, and vendors.
Various sectoral participation
The festival provided artisans a platform to reach a wider audience, further establishing Bangar as a hub of culture and craftsmanship.
Attracting hundreds of participants, including students, business owners, and barangay representatives, the event was a true community celebration, with schools and businesses contributing to its success.
Althea Grace Ormita, a local youth, expressed excitement about the parade, noting the unique chance to travel the world without leaving Bangar.
“It’s amazing to see how the town has incorporated the culture of so many countries while staying true to its own roots with the Abel and Panday. It really feels like a celebration of both global unity and local pride,” Ormita said.
The success of the parade was a result of collaborative efforts from local government officials, community volunteers, schools, and businesses.
Sarmiento, Jr. meanwhile expressed excitement for the future of the event, with this year’s set of activities set to culminate with a closing program and awarding ceremony of the “Mutia ti Abel Bangar” on Dec. 30.
“We want to make it even bigger and more inclusive next year, as we continue to celebrate the beauty of both our local culture and the cultures of the world,” Sarmiento, Jr. said.
With its successful fusion of global cultures, local traditions, and the integration of Abel and Panday artistry, the Parade of Lights exemplifies the spirit of the festival—bringing people together to celebrate what makes the community unique, while also highlighting the shared humanity that unites everyone.
The festival’s positive economic impact is a testament to its importance in boosting local businesses, supporting artisans, and enhancing the town’s tourism industry. (AMB/CCMT/KJCR, PIA La Union)
