The 117th Malihaw Festival of Victorias City in Negros Occidental was highlighted by the traditional fluvial parade and reenactment of the story of the Nuestra Señora de las Victorias recently.
A total of 23 boats sailed from Barangay VI-A to Barangay IX Port, with the image of the Lady of Victory leading the fluvial parade.
Upon arrival at the port, a narration and reenactment of how the Nuestra Señora de las Victorias came to the city and protected the people from the Moro and tulisanes raids were performed.
Our Lady of Victory parish administrator, Rev. Fr. Mitchel Guadalupe, and Rev. Fr. Christopher Entrata of the San Rogue Parish Daan Banwa led the blessing of the participating boats and of the image of the Lady of Victory, a press release from the city said.
The parade and reenactment were followed by a procession, from the San Roque Church to the city public plaza.
Victorias Vice Mayor Abelardo Bantug III, city councilors, barangay officials, department heads, and religious organizations, headed by Nona Sablan, joined the procession wearing Filipiniana and traditional outfits.
Board Member Juvy Pepello gave a message of welcome during the ceremony held at the Barangay IX Port, along with councilors Dino Acuña and Derek Palanca.
A vigil mass, officiated by Rev. Fr. Reyland Gallego, capped off the ceremony at the public plaza, also attended by Rev. Frs. Jess Elmer Ebro, Bernie Babol, and John Rey Maquilan, and Bro. Robert Kristopher Nobles.
The patronal fiesta is a significant event for Victorias and a reminder of its humble beginnings and rich history, the city said. ||
