KORONADAL CITY — The entire city practically dazzled on Monday afternoon as the country’s first-ever international folkloric festival formally opened in grand fashion. Thousands of residents and visitors crowded the city’s sidewalks and the sprawling South Cotabato Sports Complex to witness various showcases of international and local cultures through dances, songs and traditional instruments. “This is a historic day for the city and the entire country. For the first time, our country is hosting an international folkloric festival and it is right here in our city,” said Koronadal City Mayor Peter Miguel. The festivity, dubbed “Pyesta Kolon Datal: Koronadal International Folklore Festival,” started with a grand parade at around 3 p.m. of around 400 cultural performers coming from nine countries and seven national and regional contingents. It was followed by the opening ceremonies that were highlighted by performances from the participating contingents as well as a spectacular musical fireworks display. The foreign performers, who were aptly garbed in their traditional costumes, were from Slovenia, Japan, Russia, Turkey, Mexico, Poland, Indonesia, Chinese Taipei and Sri Lanka. (MindaNews)