Elpasubat marks Taal’s 442nd year

MANILA, Philippines - Hundreds of tourists are in Taal, Batangas today for the Elpasubat Festival in celebration of the town’s 442nd founding anniversary.

According to Regal Films director-turned-Vice Mayor Pong Mercado, the town invited famous personalities to join the festivities. Among the A-listers expected in this year’s Elpasubat Festival is Mother Lily Monteverde, Taal’s adopted mother.

Vice Mayor Mercado shares that the Regal Films matriarch acquired the Imperial Palace Resort in Taal after witnessing and falling in love with the town’s heritage through the festival in summer of 2011.

Empanada, longganisa, panutsa, suman, balisong and tapa are among the local products of Taal that will be showcased during the festival.

The town’s celebration will kick off with a colorful parade and street dancing competition as heritage homes around the town plaza open their doors for tourists to behold Taal’s timeless beauty. Another highlight of the festival is the Taalmusal, a breakfast fete on the streets of the heritage town that will feature Taal’s native delicacies.

A fashion show centering on the famous Burdang Taal will take place on the last evening of the two-day celebration. Finally, the Elpasubat Festival will conclude with the Gran Festival Del Baile, a glamorous night of dancing under the stars in the historical Taal town plaza.

Meantime, according to Mercado, and Taal Mayor Michael Montenegro, the festival will be a fun, unforgettable and meaningful summer experience. Lending support too in this year’s fest are Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto and Vice Gov. Mark Leviste.