MANILA, Philippines - Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto (photo) led the opening of Ala Eh! Festival last Dec. 1 in Sto. Tomas, Batangas. The festival is part of the province’s 434th founding anniversary.
The week-long celebration started with a fun-run followed by a Eucharistic celebration, opening of a trade fair, agri fair, photo contest and exhibit, lantern parade, street party and music festival, plus a Globe night.
A drum and lyre competition started yesterday and continues today. There will be a LGU (Local Government Unit) night. Tomorrow, Dec. 4, the TM Astig Bingo will be held the next day, Dec. 5, by the grand coronation night of the Mutya ng Batangas.
A downhill competition will be held on Dec. 6.
The grand celebration will also witness the VSR (Voices, Songs & Rhythms) grand finals with contestants coming from all over Batangas. Guest singers and performers provide additional entertainment to the contest.
Capping the week-long festival on Dec. 8 will be a Eucharistic celebration, festival dance competition and awarding and closing ceremonies.
This year’s Ala Eh! Festival is specially memorable. It is Gov. Vilma’s last activity as the province’s head. Supporting her in the endeavor is Sto. Tomas Mayor Edna Sanchez.