TACLOBAN CITY — In a vibrant celebration of culture and agriculture, the town of San Roque in Northern Samar held its annual Parayan Festival, showcasing the community’s rich traditions and paying tribute to its farming heritage. The festival culminated in the 2026 Dance Floor Competition, where Tribu Parag-uma wowed judges and spectators with a dynamic and well-coordinated performance, claiming the championship title.
Tribu Seawall of Mapanas finished in second place, while Tribu Bukidnon, also from Mapanas, took third. Consolation prizes were awarded to Tribu Busaynon of Lavezares and Tribu Bugasnon of San Roque.
Special awards recognized outstanding performances. Tribu Parag-uma dominated multiple categories, winning Best in Costume, Best in Carabao, and Best in Street Dance. Tribu Bukidnon earned the Best in Pahoy award.
The Parayan Festival, held every late March, marks San Roque’s founding anniversary and celebrates its agricultural roots. Known for its colorful street dances, the event depicts traditional rice farming practices and expresses gratitude for bountiful harvests, uniting the community in cultural pride.
Judging this year’s competition were Department of Tourism VIII Senior Tourism Operations Officer Norberto Lumbre; Laoang Municipal Councilor and Philippine Councilors League Northern Samar President Emil Ongchuan; Madrid, Surigao del Sur Mayor Juan Pabloe Lopez; and GMA-7 film and event director Mark Niño Pillula. Street dance judges included Shennie Mae Labanero, Carl Jamie Bordeos, and Ceasar Ian Serilo.
Local officials and organizers lauded all participating tribes for their creativity, energy, and dedication, emphasizing the festival’s role in preserving and celebrating the enduring cultural and agricultural heritage of San Roque.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
