Candaba’s ‘Ibon-Ebon’ shot down by politics
PAMPANGA , Philippines – The colorful Ibon-Ebon Festival, which brought fame to Candaba as the home of migratory birds from different parts of the world, has reportedly been shelved by the local government.
Former town mayor Jerry Pelayo believes that politics had something to do with the decision to scrap the festival.
“It’s been scrapped altogether,†said Pelayo, who initiated the project in 2007 to boost local tourism.
He said the annual festival is usually covered by international news networks such as National Geographic, Discovery Channel and Living Asia.
Candaba Mayor Rene
Maglanque has reportedly announced a new festival dubbed as Ibon-Itik to replace Pelayo’s brainchild.
Pelayo said that Maglanque, who jumped to the Liberal Party in the 2010 elections, was a former ally of former congressman Mikey Arroyo.
Bird watchers visit the Candaba swamp during this time of year to have a glimpse of 60 species of migratory birds.
“All the efforts to promote tourism in our town have been put to waste for reasons hard to comprehend,†he said.
Pelayo noted that local residents benefit from tourist arrivals during the festival.
The Ibon-Ebon celebration has placed Candaba on the world map in terms of environment conservation and protection.
Last year, the festival was held from Feb. 8 to 10.
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