BANGUED, Abra (PIA) -- Festive energy filled the streets of downtown Bangued in Abra as competitors for the elementary and open category showcased culture and creativity during the 2024 Dapil Festival street dancing competition.

The competition featured colorful costumes and culture, particularly the traditional method of extracting sugarcane juice. The street dancing parade passed through the main thoroughfares of the capital town before proceeding to the public plaza for the ground demonstration.

Mayor Mila Valera said street dancing symbolizes the town’s gratitude for the blessings from the Almighty, and to also showcase Bangued’s rich culture and arts.

“This year’s Dapil Festival is about embracing diversity, culture, and connection. Naiyannatup daytoy street dancing ken ground demo tapno nu adda kastoy nga mabuya, makita tayo ti panagtitinnulong wenno bayanihan kasta met ti panagiinayat tayo ti ili tayo a Bangued,” she added.

[The street dancing and ground demo are relevant as they highlight our cooperation or bayanihan, and our care for one another in our town of Bangued.]

Senator Francis Tolentino, who was the  guest of honor, shared his message through his son, Patrick Tolentino. He congratulated Bangued for holding an event that involves the talents, creativity, and resourcefulness of the youth in cultural stages.

Of the 16 competing entries, Bangued East Central School bagged first prize for the elementary category, while the Divine Word College of Bangued was champion for the open category.

The Dapil Queen 2024 for both the elementary and open  categories were also crowned. Kaxzine Chasey Manuel of Bangued East Central School won in the elementary category and Jeda Marie Pilar of the Data Center College of the Philippines reigned  in the open group.

Bangbangar Elementary School and Divine Word College of Bangued were also recognized as best in costume in the elementary and open category, respectively.

Dapil comes from the word ‘Panagdapil’ which is  a traditional method of extracting sugarcane juice. Sugarcane is one of the products of the capital town that is turned into different by-products like wine, muscovado sugar, vinegar, and balikutsa, among others. (JJPM-PIA Abra)