Iba marks Earth Day

Iba, the capital of Zambales, will hold several nature-themed activities such as boat racing, sand sculpture and kite-flying to celebrate Earth Day on April 22.

Iba vice mayor Benjamin Farin Jr. said the events are part of the first "Paynauen Duyan Festival" to be held April 21-24 in celebration of the town’s 394th founding day.

He said that the festival aims to instill environmental awareness among the people of Iba in its bid to become an eco-tourism destination.

"The festival was coined from the town’s ancient name – Paynauen – which means "place for relaxation," with its many beaches, lush forest cover, and other natural attributes. We need to preserve and protect these God-endowed wealth," Farin said.

He added that the Fest will try to position the town as the "beach capital of Northern Luzon" with its seven-kilometer stretch of fine sand beach and 42 resorts.

Its highlight is April 23 where hundreds of its local handicraft – the duyan or hammock will be paraded, along with paraders dressed in costumes made of indigenous materials, swaying to the tune of a local prosperity and thanksgiving dance.

Aside from beaches, its other tourist attractions include the birthplace of President Ramon Magsaysay, the circa 1700 coral and limestone Cathedral of Saint Augustine, and the Sta. Barbara twin falls.

For details, call 047-8112597 or 0917-5252447 or log on to www.sandvalleyiba.com.