Calacazens celebrate 188th founding anniversary

 

By Archie Liao

Expect higher level of revelry as the new city of  Calaca, Batangas celebrates its 188th founding anniversary with its much awaited CalacAtchara Festival from May 1 to 10, 2023.

 With the theme: “Calaca Rising: Higher Power”, Calaca beams the energy of its people with highlights on its culture and history, as it underscores its remarkable transition as the first city in Western Batangas.

Mayor Sofronio “Nas” C. Ona Jr., who led Calaca in the city-hood elevation, states : “This year’s CalacAtchara showcases and honors our people’s talents, creativity, dedication, and energies to propel our new city forward. I enjoin Calacazens, Batangas neighbors, and delighted visitors to check out our announced programs on this historic celebration.”

An opening program is set on May 1 with Sen. Christopher “Bong” Go gracing the occasion.

“Green Power : Calaca City Agri-Fair” is from May 1 to 10, and banners products under the One Barangay, One Product Program and Livelihood programs in all 40 barangays. A “Pinaka Contest” recognizes products with the “mostest” by participants.

“Power of Story : Calaca Film Festival” runs from May 1 to 9 with stories of courage and empowerment. Full length and short stories which uplift the spirit and provide perspectives across dramatic themes are featured. It also signifies the openness of Calacazens to embrace modern art expressions, celebrating freedom of expression and awareness.

On May 3, 2023, “Power Within : Ms. Gay Calaca City 2023” competition highlights and honors LGBTQ talents while on May 5, 2023, the first Binibining Lungsod ng Calaca is chosen through “Empowered Women: Bb. Lungsod ng Calaca 2023”. 

A city fest is only a fest with street dancing. On May 6, 2023 “Calascope Street Dance and Exhibition” takes place as a kaleidoscope of ingenuity and brilliance with the Deped Calaca community presenting its own colorful dances.

Calaca as a center of development and a promising hub for investors is manifested in the “Power of Light Float Parade: Illuminating the city of Calaca” on May 7. Marvelous light floats signify the role of industries for city growth.

Outstanding men, women and organizations of Calaca get center stage on May 9 with Gawad Parangal Grand Power Ball Higher Power Awards.

Culminating these is “Araw ng Calaca Mayor’s Night” on May 10, marking the 188th founding anniversary . Pumped up energy from popular talents of the country caps off the event on a high note, as well as presents a powerful backdrop to future festivities.

Other events that will further liven the celebration are Horseback Riding, Mountain Bike Challenge, Car and Motor Show, Job Fair, Barangay Power Up Challenge, Power Pups Dog Show, Power Play Inter-Barangay League, Photo Exhibit, Fun Run & Zumba and Ground breaking Ceremony for the City Hall Annex Building and National Government Center. 

The schedule of the CalacAtchara is posted at Gawang Calaca PIO, an official Facebook account, and at City of Calaca, another official FB page of the city.