Aurora recently hosted a lively festival dedicated to honoring the carabao, a key partner in agriculture and local culture. Held at the Capitol Grounds in Barangay Suklayin, the event was part of the province’s 46th founding anniversary celebration and showcased a variety of activities that highlighted the carabao’s significance in farming.
Carabao Parade and Competitions
The festival kicked off with the “Karosang Kalabaw: Likha ng Sining at Bayanihan” (Carabao Parade and Float Competition), where participants displayed their decorated carabaos. The “Panlalawigang Kalabaw ni Juan” (Search for Best Carabao in Costume, Talent, and Body Conformation) recognized outstanding carabaos for their looks and skills, while the “Best Upgraded Carabao” competition focused on the enhancement of the local carabao breeds.
A Tribute to the Carabao
During his keynote speech, Dr. Ericson Dela Cruz of the Philippine Carabao Center – Central Luzon State University (PCC-CLSU) spoke about the carabao’s invaluable role in farming, milk production, and even leather crafting. Governor Reynante Tolentino also paid tribute to the carabao, acknowledging its vital contribution to food security and sustainable agriculture in the province. The festival’s theme, “Tribute to the Heroic Partner of Juan in Agriculture,” underscored the animal’s importance to local communities.
Art and Culinary Competitions
In addition to agricultural events, the festival also featured the “Kalabaw Pintados: Obra ng Kabukiran” (Carabao Body Painting Contest) and the “Bakas ng Kalabaw sa Likod ng Lente” (Carabao Photography Contest), celebrating carabaos through art. The “Kalabaw Kulinarya: Timplang Aurora” (Carabao Meat Cooking Competition) offered a chance to savor carabao meat in regional dishes.
The festival also included a special donation of two male carabaos to the Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) to support local agricultural programs.
