Pajo barrio fiesta revives Pinoy games

CEBU, Philippines - The first barrio fiesta in Barangay Pajo, Lapu-Lapu City in honor of its patron saint San Jose the Worker was a big success and the parish priest of Nuestra Señora Virgin of Rule lauded the barangay officials for initiating the religious affair.

Reverend Father Jaime Duero, who officiated the enthronement of San Jose the Worker as patron saint of Barangay Pajo, said the activity was first to happen in Lapu-Lapu City for more than 20 years of his stay here.

Duero said the patron saint of Barangay Pajo, San Jose the Worker, is fit for the barangay because aside from the number of business and industrial establishments present in the area, it also means “trabaho” or work for barangay officials.

Duero directed all presidents of 17 chapels in Barangay Pajo to support the success of the fiesta celebration next year.

He also acknowledged the leadership of Barangay Captain Junard “Ahong” Chan,  who is the one  behind of the success of the first barrio fiesta.

Father Duero cited the importance of support and cooperation among the people of Barangay Pajo.

“Nalipay kaayo kita nga ang Barangay Pajo nakahunahuna niining maong kalihukan nga ‘barrio fiesta” hadiin usa ka santos ang ilang gipasidunggan, ang San Jose the Worker,” he said.

In a separate interview, Chan said the barrio fiesta aimed to revive the different native games. These include dama, tubig-tubig, palo sebo, hapak sa colon, tag of war, sack race, chess, volleyball, basketball, poster making contest, kite contest and puso contest.

More than 2,000 children also received free balloons, ice cream and cotton candy.

Also highlighted the celebration was the Pajo Got Talent.

Chan expressed his thanks to barangay officials, workers and residents who helped them for the success of the first barrio fiesta.  (FREEMAN)