PASAKA FESTIVAL. Residents and visitors gather at the Tanauan Freedom Park as the municipality celebrates its 117th founding anniversary and the annual Pasaka Festival, featuring two weeks of cultural, religious, and community activities from Aug. 1 to 15. (BETTER AND BRIGTHER TANAUAN FACEBOOK)

TACLOBAN CITY – The municipality of Tanauan in Leyte has kicked off a two-week celebration for its 117th founding anniversary and the annual Pasaka Festival, featuring cultural performances, religious activities, talent competitions, and community events from Aug. 1 to 15.

Organized by the local government under Mayor Gina Merilo, the festivities bring together schools, religious groups, youth organizations, and civil society to showcase the town’s culture, faith, and local talent through nightly activities at the Tanauan Freedom Park.
Among the highlights are the “Pista sa Nayon,” Governor’s Night, SK and Youth Night, dance and singing competitions, Little Miss Tanauan 2026, Mister Tanauan Pasaka 2026, Miss Tanauan Pasaka 2026, and the LGU and Pepsi Nights.

The celebration will culminate on Aug. 15 with the 117th Tanauan Day rites in honor of the town’s patroness, Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion.

The Pasaka Festival is Tanauan’s annual cultural and religious celebration that promotes local heritage, tourism, and community participation while commemorating the municipality’s founding anniversary.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)