Vice Governor Ericson Felipe
Governor Melchor Diclas
Kimberly Molitas representing Congressman Eric Go Yap
The Benguet people once again celebrate their unity, the richness of culture, of natural resources, its growing tourism industry thru Adivay 2023
Governor Melchor Diclas declared the opening of the 123rd Benguet Founding Anniversary celebration through the Adivay Festival 2023 with the theme, “Benguet: Gateway to Unforgettable Getaways” on November 6 at the provincial Capitol.
“Together, let us embark on this exciting journey, explore the unique beauty of our province and celebrate the warmth and charm of its people. May this festival reflect the spirit of unity, diversity, and exploration,” the Governor said.
Diclas said this year’s theme focuses on tourism in recognition of the vast potential of the province to draw visitors not only for its tourism spots but also for its hard-working people and rich culture.
He paid tribute to the past leaders of Benguet for the success and developments the province achieved over the years.
Vice Governor Ericson Felipe urged the public to embrace the cultural tapestry, celebrate natural wonders, and work towards a future harmonizing development with cultural preservation and environmental protection.
“As we celebrate our culture, let us rejoice in the diversity that unites us and the traditions that shape us. Let us embrace our unique costumes, dances, and music, such as trends, that are the tapestry of our collective identity. Let this festival be a testament to the resilience, ingenuity, and unwavering experience of the people of Benguet,” Felipe said.
Congressman Eric Yap, represented by Kristine Molitas, echoed the sentiment of unity and shared purpose and emphasized the need for collective progress, urging everyone to work together for a better Benguet.
Diclas enjoined the people of Benguet and the visitors to participate in the wide array of activities lined up for the month- long celebration of the Adivay that include agri-tourism fair, trade fair, jobs fair, cultural performances, various competitions, Search for Mr and Ms Benguet, among others.
The major activities include the Adivay Agri-Tourism Fair staged from Nov. 14-24 at the Benguet Sports Complex in Wangal, La Trinidad featuring traditional structure-inspired booths and landscapes of the 13 municipalities where locally produced products and freshly harvested fruits and vegetables, processed foods and creative arts and crafts as well as tourist sites in photos of each municipality are displayed and or for sale.
The Benguet Cultural Dance Performance on Nov. 11 was a great platform for showcasing the folklores of the different municipalities and in engaging the youth in cultural preservation.
There is also the Adivay Fashion Fusion Showcase featuring designs from different local designers and the weaving industry of the province.
The celebration will be highlighted by the gathering of people from the 13 towns of Benguet ia a parade and Grand Canao on November 23, 2023 . The day is a special holiday in the Benguet.
Derived from the Ibaloi term meaning “coming together,” Adivay continues to serve as a cultural connection, bringing together the 13 towns of Benguet. Adivay festival has become a continuing tradition which forge unity and cooperation among the people of Benguet. (RMC-PIA CAR with Regel Ferrer & Hanna Honorio- SLU Interns)
