Sogod launches first “Panagsogod” Festival

The town of Sogod yesterday launched its first Panagsogod Festival with the “Tribu Magbubukid,” sponsored by the Association of Barangay Councils adjudged as grand champion in the festival competition.

The festival, aptly carrying the slogan “Ang Sinugdanan” (The Beginning), started with street dancing and a parade, exhibition and the showdown at the town’s reclamation area.

Other winners aside from the Tribu Magbubukid, which received P30,000 plus trophy, were Kulturang Sogoranon which won second place and received P20,000 plus trophy, Pundok Bulawanong Sogoranon —third place with P10,000 plus trophy and Pundok Calumboyan — fourth place with P5,000 plus trophy.

Pundok Bulawanong Sogoranon was also chosen Best in Costume and best in street dancing exhibition while the best in musicality went to Kulturang Sogoranon.

This year’s Festival Queen is Miss April Rica Lumbab.

Dancers from Danao City who interpreted the Karansa Festival also performed as a guest contingent during the affair.

Fifth District Rep. Ramon “Red” Durano VI and Governor Gwendolyn Garcia witnessed the celebration together with the other provincial officials including Provincial Board members Agnes Magpale and Rosemarie Durano.

Vice Mayor Lissa Marie Durano, who was one of those who conceptualized the event, lauded the support given by the provincial government and the private sector.

She said the festival is among a series of activities aimed at showcasing the town’s rich cultural heritage and potential as a tourist destination. The Panagsogod Festival was celebrated in time with the feast of the town’s patron St. James the Apostle.

Yesterday’s festival was preceded by a series of events that started since July 1 like the mass wedding, talent showdown, agro-fair, and the special dinner affair at the Alegre beach resort.

The town of Sogod considers the Panagsogod Festival as an opportune time for a renewal of unity, cooperation, and prosperity.  — Jose P. Sollano/WAB