Party Pilipinas opens Ibalong Festival today

MANILA, Philippines - GMA 7’s Party Pilipinas relives the epic legend Ibalong Festival today with Kapuso celebrities at the Ibalong Centrum for Recreation (ICR).

Stars continue to shine at the Mutya ng Ibalong on Aug. 29 hosted by 1999 Miss Universe first runner-up Miriam Quiambao and Marc Nelson.

The festival’s highlight is the epic presentation on Aug. 30 where vital chapters of the Ibalong mythology will be re-enacted by participating contingents in a colorful parade and street theater.

Interestingly to note, Miriam, fresh from her successful campaign at the 1999 Miss Universe, was special guest in that year’s Ibalong Festival. A fire broke out in the hotel where she was staying before the street parade, but with grace under pressure, she was evacuated safely to meet the adoring crowd of Legazpi City.

The festival draws to a close on Aug. 31 with a concert featuring Kapamilya stars Angeline Quinto and Gerald Anderson.

The month-long festivity will feature various socio-civic events, national and international sports tournaments, entertainment shows and cultural activities.

Mayor Geraldine Rosal said that the event will also showcase the strides made by Legazpi City in terms of urbanization, infrastructure, governance and in convention and adventure tourism.