DAGUPAN CITY (PIA) – The agricultural town of Aguilar in Pangasinan recently concluded its 11th "Ansakket Festival," promoting local produce and honoring the hardworking farmers who cultivate it.

"Ansakket," meaning glutinous rice in Pangasinan, is the town's "One Town, One Product" (OTOP) – a program highlighting unique local offerings.  

This festival served as a vibrant platform for Aguilar's farmers, most of whom specialize in rice production.

"The Ansakket Festival is a significant annual event. It allows us to showcase and expand the market for our farmers' products, particularly glutinous rice, a staple crop with consistently high production,” shared Roda Villanueva, Aguilar's municipal agriculturist. 

The festival extends beyond just promoting agriculture.  

It fosters a sense of community pride and acts as a tourism draw for Pangasinan. 

Visitors were treated to a delightful display of glutinous rice dishes, from classic biko and bitso-bitso to delectable suman, highlighting the diverse culinary uses of this versatile ingredient.

"Through showcasing these dishes and cultural performances centered around glutinous rice, the festival offers a window into the heart of Aguilar's culture and traditions,” explained Villanueva.

The Municipal Agriculture and Fishery Council played a key role by organizing Farmer's Day, recognizing the essential contribution of farmers to the community.

The festival also featured a bustling parade, a street dancing competition, a drum and lyre exhibition, "Limgas na Aguilar," and a talent night. 

Additionally, attendees enjoyed a fun run, a Zumba session, a singing competition ("The Voice"), medical, dental, and legal missions; inter-barangay league; educator’s night; and cultural and people’s night.

Villanueva emphasized the importance of social media in promoting the festival and local products.  

She encouraged media outlets and stakeholders to utilize these platforms to connect with potential customers, increase visibility, and highlight the unique offerings showcased during the festival.

"By sharing the festival and local businesses on social media, we can encourage friends and visitors to support these entrepreneurs," she said. 

She added, "Remember, every purchase makes a difference, and social media can amplify that impact." (JCR/AMB/JCDR/AQP/PIA Pangasinan)