Talisay marks “Halad” today

CEBU, Philippines - At least 20 contingents from different public and private schools in Talisay City are expected to join the annual “Halad Festival” in Talisay City, to be held today in honor of its patron saint, Santa Teresa de Avila.

City public information officer Vince Monterde said it is purely a “halad,” or an honor to the saint, which the whole city celebrates her feast day today, through a variety of dances and praises.

As of yesterday afternoon, 24 schools are expected to join.

Monterde said every facet of the “Halad Festival” remains the same except that the parade will take a longer route this time.

At 1 p.m., the contingents, which will assemble at the “Kasadya sa SRP” (a carnival-like setup in front of the new city hall) area, will dance their way to barangay Lawaan I.  The parade will also pass by the Mananga Bridge, barangays Tabunok, Bulacao, the East Visayan Academy (also in  Bulacao area), and back to Tabunok passing Gaisano Fiesta Mall, and then to Sangi.

It will also pass the road to Kimba, San Roque, down to barangay Cansojong and then to Poblacion, to the Santa Teresa de Avila Church, and then to Dumlog, and finally back to the city hall, where a program will be held.

Despite the long route, Monterde said no roads will be closed tomorrow as the parade will just pass by.

However, motorists are advised to take note of the heavy traffic in areas where the parade will pass, especially in barangay Poblacion where thousands of people are expected to visit the church.  (FREEMAN)