Sarok takes the spotlight 

Winners of the sarok painting and decorating contest held at a mall in Consolacion town.

CONSOLACION, Cebu – Colorful and decorated saroks were highlighted on Monday, February 3, 2020, during a contest at a mall as part of Consolacion’s centennial anniversary celebration.

Saroks are among the highlights of the celebration as it is a symbol of the town of Consolacion, whose centennial anniversary is slated Thursday, February 6, 2020.

Read: ‘No backpack policy’ up for Consolacion’s centennial anniversary

“We are identified as makers of the sarok hats originating from our native ancestors,” said Consolacion Mayor Joannes Alegado.

A sarok is type of hat and one of the handicraft products of the town of Consolacion in the northern side of Metro Cebu.

“Sarok is still relevant nowadays. Aside as a symbol of the town, it symbolizes resilience, beauty and the rich culture of Consolacion,” added Mayor Alegado.

With this, the mayor said he hopes sarok making will be  preserved.

Read: SAROK WEAVING: Preserving the dying industry of Consolacion

Alegado, in a speech, called on the present and the coming generation to give value and appreciate the sarok’s usefulness, as many have have forgotten and the skill to make these hats.

Mayor Alegado issued Executive Order No. 11 last year to include the preservation of sarok making in the Department if Education curriculum.

He added that they are now innovating the use and functions of sarok to be more attractive that can make it a good souvenir item.

The sarok painting contest was participated by elementary students while the sarok designing was for high school students. The  sarok weaving contest had a  teachers category, an open category and barangay category. /bmjo