Lanao contingent not disheartened by zero win in parade

CEBU, Philippines - The provincial government of Lanao del Norte promised to give a “bigger” and “spectacular performance” in next year’s Sinulog. This even if the province’s contingent never won a single award in this year’s Sinulog Grand Parade.

Lyndon Calica, public information officer of Lanao del Norte, said their failure to get an award did not dampen their spirits. In fact, it gave them the push to continue promoting the province as a “Land of Beauty and Bounty” and a place where peace reigns amidst a diverse culture and religion.

“We promise a more specular performance for the Cebuanos and to the people around the world,” Calica said. 

Lanao del Norte Governor Mohamad Khalid Dimaporo said earlier that the Sinulog is an avenue for them to show the world the real Lanao del Norte, which is contrary to the usual perception people have of Mindanao.

This year, the province sent at least 300 representatives to Cebu for the Sinulog, including dancers, drummers and propsmen and officials of the provincial government.

Calica said the province spent around P3 million for its contingent this year. During the Grand Parade, contingent representatives gave out fans and compact discs containing information about the province.

This is the fourth time that Lanao del Norte joined the Sinulog Grand Parade. In 2009, they won Best in Costume and was third runner-up in the Free Interpretation category and second place in Street Dancing.

The year after, the contingent placed again as third runner-up in the Free Interpretation category. This year, the contingent’s bet for Sinulog Festival Queen placed fourth runner-up. (FREEMAN)