Halad Festival 2022: A Dance Offertory to Restore Old Normal
"In the midst of pandemic God is with us" Fr. Elmer Boston, OMI - Parish Priest of the Archdiocesan Shrine of Sr. Sto. Nino reminded every Midsayapeño in his prayer as the municipality celebrates the Patronal Fiesta of the Infant Jesus and the 33rd Halad Festival last January 15.
The colorful festivity derived from a Cebuano word "halad" which means to offer has since been a pinultimate destination in Central Mindanao showcasing the devotion, artistry, creativity and vibrance of Midsayap.
The Covid 19 pandemic may have restricted the celebration to a face to face platform but knowing the resilience and obedience of Midsayapeños, the Halad Festival goes creatively digital.
This year's festivity is hosted by the parish with Dr. Jay Pueyo as the Halad Festival Chair. Competitions include: Dressing My Sto. Niño, Photojournalism, Festival Queen Attire and Sayaw Galaw - a digital dance choreography.
The celebration was held at the Bulwagang Genoveva Deles-Jaranilla.
A. Sayaw Galaw: Maghalad Ta Competition
Champion: Central Mindanao Colleges, Kidapawan City
First Runner-up: Tribung Panggas - USM Libungan Campus
Second Runner-up: Poblacion Youth
People's Choice: Tribung Panggas - USM Libungan
B. Dressing My Sto. Niño
Champion: Ar-ar Cedeño
First Runner-up: Julius Esparagoza
Second Runner-up: John Mark Pundag
C. Photojournalism
Champion: Julie Royeras
First Runner-up: Klienth Retazo
Second Runner-up: Benncel Marie Gornez
People's Choice: Klienth Retazo
D. Festival Queen Attire
Champion: Benjie Fajunio
First Runner-up: Marnel Capadosa
Second Runner-up: Aiko Montaño
People's Choice: Shawn Ace Mijares
E. Most Bibo Group
34th Infantry Battalion
Everyone in physical and virtual attendance felt the undeniable beat and vibe Halad Festival is known for. The NDMC community were all applause when Fr. Jonathan R. Domingo, OMI - NDMC President accepted the 2023 Halad Festival hosting.
With high hopes to a physical Halad Festivity next year, everyone offered a prayer to Sr. Sto. Niño for His miraculous presence and positivity
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