KNOWN for its distinct style in holding its fiesta revelry, the eleven-day-long TambaNipa Festival kicked off in the coastal barangay Bonbon on Sunday morning, September 1 with a Mass Motorcade and Sikad Race Contest.
“Dili pwede nga ma miss nato ang parade ug motorkada nga patsada alegre kaayo kay maghulat na pud ta'g isa ka tuig para ma-experience ang susama niini ka bibo,” teacher Mila Paguia told Gold Star Daily.
The uniqueness of the Bonbon fiesta celebration specifically on the 10th day of September in honor of its patron saint San Nicolas de Tolentino has been inspired by the barangay’s rich harvest of tamban (sardine) fish and its marsh surroundings’ abundance of Nipa plants that are not just modest source of livelihood but also saved many lives during the great Sendong catastrophe in 2011.
Showcasing the local folk’s unity and teamwork effort in preparing the more than-week spectacle on rainy days, Barangay Bonbon chairwoman Lelit Baal-Molina said she expects the usual influx of visitors from other places to share the gaiety and fun.
“Malaumon kami sa Council nga enough ang kakayahan sa among mga tanod nga mag malinawon atong kapistahan uban sa ilang pagduyog sa mga special events nga gihan-ay,” Baal-Molina said.
Completing the TambaNipa Festival’s merriment are the following schedules of activities: Sept 2, Chess Tournament and Mutya ng Bonbon Talent Night; Sept 3, Zumba Contest and Barangay Night; Sept 4, Bingo Sosyal by BWDC and False Gay; Sept 5, Suruy Suruy sa Baryo, Sepak Takraw, LGBTQIA+ and Boxing, Sept 6, Field Demonstration and Teacher's Night, Sept 7, Fisherfolks Day, PWD Activity, Little Mister and Miss Bonbon LGBTQ Night; Sept 8, Larong Lahi, Zumba and Mr. PYAP Night; Sept 9, TambaNipa Festival, Street Dancing and Mutya ng Bonbon Coronation Night; Sept 10, Day of Fiesta, Disco Party; Sept 11, the traditional Sakay-Sakay ni Sr. San Nicolas de Tolentino.
