Contingent No.1 of Zones Okra, Sikwa and Patatas perform at the 3rd Pakna-an, Silhig Festival. (CDN PHOTO/NORMAN MENDOZA)
A group depicting the character of Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan giving an image of the Sto. Niño to Pakna-anons in exchange for their “silhig” or brooms won first place in yesterday’s 3rd Silhig Pakna-an Festival.
Contingent No. 6 composed of zones Tamatis, Sibuyas, and Repolyo also swept the minor awards such as Best in Basic Steps, Best in Andas, and Best in Costume, Best in Choreography and Best in Street Dancing.
The contingent trounced six other groups.
“Gitiman-an gyud nako ang 10 basic steps aning Silhig festival and the organizers’ criteria,” said Giovanni Rey Flores, choreographer of this year’s grand champion.
Flores was referring to last year’s second-place finish of the group.
He said the Magellan concept was the first time it was used in this festival. The props and the big boat used by Magellan also made a difference in the contest.
Second place went to Contingent No. 4 made up of zones Kamote, Luy-a and Pechay.
Third Place went to Contingent No. 2 composed of zones Paliya, Mongos and Karots.
Contingent No. 6 bagged the top prize of P25,000 and another P15,000 for the minor awards.
Contingent No. 4 took the second prize of P20,000 while Contingent No. 2 took home P15,000 for the third place finish. Non-winners were each given P10,000 for their efforts.