100 roasted pigs readied for Vizcaya’s pork fest today

BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines – People in this province will feast on lots of pork today.

No, this is not the controversial “congressional pork” but the real delectable and crispy lechon or roasted pig, which local residents as well as those from neighboring provinces would partake for this year’s lechon festival here today.

Now on its 7th year, the festivity highlights the offering of at least 100 lechon by members of a local religious-cum-environment group, Vucal ng Pananampalataya, to celebrate the birthday of their founding leader, Dominador de Guia, who is known as “Couya” (brother) Doming.

All the roasted pigs will be shared by members and non-members of the spiritual group at the Señora Falls along the Sierra Madre range where the group’s mission center is based.

This year’s lechon festival marks the 82nd birthday of Couya Doming, whom devotees believe possesses curing powers during his lifetime.

Josue de Guia or Kuya Tal, one of Couya Doming’s sons and his designated successor, reiterated that their group is not a cult.

The annual festivity, he said, is aimed at further reminding one’s spiritual obligation and for both members and non-members to renew their friendship and unity.

The gathering, he added, would allow visitors to have a glimpse of the majestic Señora Falls, located within a 500-hectare area, which the group is now turning into an ecotourism “wonderland.”