Bermejo, Tanco open Sinadya sa Halaran Festival
ROXAS CITY – In the spirit of camaraderie, cooperation and unity for progress, City Mayor Vicente Bermejo and Capiz Governor Victor Tanco, Sr. set aside their political differences and officially opened yesterday the biggest festival of Capiz, Sinadya sa Halaran which is slated December 3-8 this year.
With full support from City Councilors who were seated at the stage at the city plaza, Bermejo said that celebrating the festival is in pursuit of the way of life our forefathers.
“Let’s not allow anyone who would derail our efforts to celebrate the Sinadya sa Halaran,” Bermejo said.
On the other hand, Tanco assured to the people of Capiz to keep on celebrating the Sinadya sa Halaran every year thereafter.
Bermejo, who recently filed his candidacy as a reelectionist, is the party mate of former Agriculture (DA) Usec. Jocelyn “Jocjoc” Bolante of Ugyon Kita Capiz (UKC) who is the opponent of Tanco in 2010 gubernatorial race.
Tanco and Bermejo were both accompanied by provincial board members and city councilors, respectively during the opening of Salvo of Sinadya sa Halaran at the city band stand yesterday.
This year’s Sinadya sa Halaran has an added attraction where the Western Visayas Tourism Assembly is being held here on December 4 -6 to be participated by Iloilo, Antique, Aklan, Guimaras and Negros provinces.
Halaran means offering which showcases the way of life of Capiceños. It was conceived during the time of former Governor Cornelio Villareal, Jr. in 1970s every month of June. The celebration was moved to the month of October during the stint of former Governor Jose Ting Borda and Esteban Contreras.
Halaran was merged with Sinadya but at one time the two celebrations were split when Contreras run against the Roxases.
Sinadya which means joy was also conceptualized by Mrs. Judy Araneta Roxas, mother of Sen. Mar Roxas mother. It is celebrated every December 8 in honor of Mama Mary, the city patroness.
