13th ‘Linggo ng Bulacan’ starts Sept. 8

MALOLOS, Bulacan — Now on its 13th year, the Linggo ng Bulacan kicks off on Sept. 8, promising more than the usual festivities as it highlights the rich cultural and historical heritage of this Central Luzon province dubbed the cradle of the First Republic in Asia.

Aside from colorful displays of traditions and cultural practices, this year’s event will also showcase the ingenuity of Bulakeños and their world-class products.

Gov. Josefina de la Cruz said this year’s celebration will be anchored on the theme "Pagsu—sulong sa Galing at Produktong Bulakenyo, Kaagapay sa Pag-Angat ng Kabuhayang Pilipino."

"We have organized activities that will have economic implications. We have allotted a day for different sectors which are stakeholders in the economic development, to participate," she said.

This year, 24 new products will be launched, while six original Bulacan products — pastillas, minasa, kapeng Tagalog, ensaymada, inipit and longganisa — launched last year will be presented with improved packaging.

Simultaneous opening ceremonies will be held in Bula—can’s 22 municipalities and two component cities.

Local and foreign tourists will marvel at the colorful activities such as the Singkaban (Sining at Kalinangan ng Bulacan) Festival now on its eighth year, highlighted by a street-dancing competition where students from different schools dance to traditional songs along the Paseo del Congreso in the City of Malolos.

The Singkaban Festival will honor National Artist for Music Ernani Cuenco, who hailed from Barangay Tikay in the City of Malolos.

The fest will kick off with the Sayaw Pilipino: Pista ng Bula—kenyong Mananayaw. The Lakan Sining Exhibit will display the masterpieces of renowned Bulakeño painters, including Al Perez and Jose Joya.

Other events include Sulyap sa Tagumpay ng Bulakeño, Isang Awit - Bulacan, a choral festival; launching of Dr. Nicanor Tiongson’s book "The Women of Malolos," and Bulakeño Ako: Kongreso ng Kabataan Para sa Sining at Kultura.