The city government of Victorias turned Halloween into a day of fun and community spirit as it hosted “SpookVenture: Storytelling and Kids’ Treats”, and the “Zumba Tsu-Mamiesss” at the City Public Library and City Public Plaza, Oct. 30.
The “SpookVenture: Storytelling and Kids’ Treats” gathered 70 kids for an afternoon of stories and treats.
This year’s participants were the children and relatives of city government employees, with plans to open next year’s celebration to all children across Victorias to engage more young Victoriasanons, the city said in a press release Nov. 1.
The event began at the City Public Library, where OIC city librarian Mary Ann Lazo, dressed as “Ursula”, entertained kids with a lively storytelling session titled “Halloween Under the Sea”.
After the storytelling, the children roamed the City Hall premises for a trick-or-treat, visiting participating departments and offices that prepared candies and goodies for them.
The celebration then continued at the public plaza, where the kids were welcomed by City Mayor Abelardo Bantug III, Councilor Dexter Senido, and several department heads, who handed out treat baskets to all participants. The festive atmosphere was made even more enjoyable with free popcorn from Councilor Jappy Cuaycong and free ice cream and cotton candy, courtesy of Mayor JunB.
The event also featured a Best Halloween Costume Contest, where the most creative and eye-catching costumes among the kids were picked.
Daniel Tornea III, in a skeleton costume, and Apollo Javier Sorbito, as Aladdin, were chosen as best in the boys’ category, while Jilic Marie Jimenez, as Kuromi, and Jassluen Detoyato, as Corpse Bride, won in the girls’ category.
Following the kids’ merriment, the “Zumba Tsu-Mamiesss” event took place at the plaza, where zumba enthusiasts in their Halloween-themed costumes danced to upbeat and spooky tunes.
The Top 10 Zumba Tsu-Mamiesss were recognized for their creative outfits and energetic performances, with Sidlak Kadalag-an choreographer Ricky Lapidante Jr. serving as judge.
The “SpookVenture” and “Zumba Tsu-Mamiesss” event underscored Victorias’ commitment to promoting creativity, family fun, and community engagement, making Halloween a meaningful and memorable celebration for both kids and parents alike.
The plaza was also transformed into a realm of creativity and mythical wonder in a pre-Halloween celebration and costume competition Oct. 30.
Among the 15 participating Victoriasanons who showcased their eerie and imaginative Halloween-inspired costumes, Frindche Limbang from Barangay XXI emerged as Best in Halloween Costume for her Manug Hiwit-inspired costume, designed by Denzel Aquino.
Taking second place was Rain Luto with a Diablo costume designed by Rico Jornadal, while Khaycee Ortega won as third placer with her Ancient Head Devouring Monster costume designed by Janre Mondia.
The winners received cash prizes of P20,000, P15,000, and P10,000 respectively, in recognition of their creativity, artistry, and performance.
The remaining 12 participants each took home P2,000 as consolation prize.
The entries were evaluated by production designer, artist, and mechanical props expert Danilo Gonzales Antenero Jr., artistic director and resident choreographer of Murcia LGU Joven Alitao, and production and costume designer Christopher John Puerta.
Capping off the night of fun and fright was a lively performance from local band Light Gauge, the city said. ||
