HIGALAAY Festival 2023 in Cagayan de Oro City brought the community together in a vibrant display of unity and cultural pride. The festivities, described by Chief of Staff Shiela Lumbatan of the city mayor's office, were truly marvelous.
Local residents eagerly gathered to witness two major events: the Civic Military Parade and Float Competition, and the long-awaited Higalaay Street Dancing Competition.
The Civic Military Parade and Float Competition showcased the city's rich heritage and collective pride through stunningly crafted floats.
Participants from various sectors, including government bodies, private organizations, educational institutions, barangays, and civic groups, enthusiastically joined the procession.
"The creativity and beauty of the floats left spectators in awe as they paraded through Gaerlan Street to Divisoria," said Lumbatan.
After the parade, the winners were announced. The Palawan Group emerged as champions, embodying the spirit of the event.
Barangay Carmen and Je Hydro secured the second and third positions, respectively.
"This grand parade not only symbolized the cultural legacy and history of Cagayan de Oro City but also fostered unity within the community," she said.
Simultaneously, the Street Dancing Competition, the highlight of the Higalaay Festival 2023, took place.
Participants impressed the onlookers with their synchronized and vibrant dance routines.
"Through their energetic performances, they demonstrated their dedication to preserving the city's traditions while infusing contemporary elements," Lumbatan said.
The festival created a lasting memory of unity and cultural pride among the residents of Cagayan de Oro City, she ssid.
"t was a day filled with joy, beauty, and a reaffirmation of the city's heritage, as described by Lumbatan.
Notably, matinee idol Joshua Garcia's participation in the Street Dancing competition added an extra layer of excitement and anticipation, capturing the hearts of Kagayanons.
The event, held at the Misamis Oriental Integrated Sports Complex, showcased a dazzling array of vibrant dance routines.Oro comes alive with unity, cultural pride at Higalaay Festival 2023.
