MANILA, Philippines - If Quezon province has its Pahiyas and Baguio has Panagbenga, Batangas has Ala Eh Festival, which celebrates the province’s foundation anniversary held annually in the month of December.
The Ala Eh Festival is now known as the most colorful and grandiose celebration in the province of Batangas which was launched in 2008. The three-week event showcases products, culture and traditions of the 31 towns and three cities of Batangas. Adding luster to the event was the roster of celebrity guests.
This year’s festivity with the theme May Sasaya Pa Ga? was organized by the local government led by Batangas City Mayor Eddie Dimacuha in coordination with Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto and Vice Gov. Mark Leviste II. The activities included the Ala Eh Food Festival, Street Dance Competition, Float Parade, Parol Making Contest, Mutya ng Batangas 2013 and Voices, Songs & Rhythms singing contest held last Dec. 7.
The main highlight was the grand finals of Voices, Songs & Rhythms (Timpalak Awitan sa Kapitolyo Year 3) held at the Batangas City Coliseum. The competition was divided into two categories, the Junior Division and the Main or Adult Division. Celebrity judging panel was headed by Jose Mari Chan with Tirso Cruz III, Marian Rivera, Radha, Jed Madela, Yayo Aguila, Elmo Magalona, Dolly Ann Carvajal, Marcelito Pomoy and Jessa Zaragoza. The event was hosted by Gabby Concepcion, Roderick Paulate, Amy Perez and Maja Salvador.