Category: Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions

Happy Halloween 2020

By livelifeandlove on October 30, 2020

Halloween may not look quiet the same this year for the kids, it would be a different one. It’s a NO NO to a party, NO spooky costume and NO pumpkin carols but still we can celebrate it at home with some spooky ideas.

This year’s theme goes well with a greater sense of purpose in connection with nature, I love gardening, my most pleasurable activity, the most relaxing during quarantine. For my Halloween accent, not so creepy as you think, it’s miniature garden props.

It’s about time to take a look into my spooky and creepy skull pots, a Halloween indoor planter.

My skull pots are cute decorative pots that can become plants new home, it is good for cactus, succulents and other mini plants.

I don’t like the creepy outdoor decorations like the white ghost, skeletons, zombies and witches that keeps me up at night, it scares me!

How about you? How do you celebrate the spookiest time of the year?

Anyway, Enjoy the fright night!

Happy Halloween Everyone!

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Recipes for busy moms/Fruits/Desserts/Salad/Decorative Ideas

Mid-Autumn Festival / Mooncake Festival 2020

By livelifeandlove on October 1, 2020

My greetings to all Chinese worldwide

”Happy Mid-Autumn Festival”

It’s time again to celebrate the brightest full moon of the year, the ”Mooncake Festival also known as Mid-Autumn Festival” it falls on this day Thursday October 1, 2020. In Hongkong and Singapore it is also referred to as a celebration of harvest and ”Lantern festival” Every year on the 15th day of the 8th month of Lunar calendar Chinese countries such as China, Singapore, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, Malaysia and all countries throughout East and Southeast Asia celebrated this important event.

Today, fellow Chinese families will gather to celebrate the moon fest with good luck food, family reunion, moon gazing and it is already a tradition to go out in the evening to admire the brightest full moon of the year while partaking their favorite mooncake and it is usually accompanied by a tea. This is also a romantic time for lovers, they usually stay up late to view the dramatic full moon outdoors.

This year 2020 would be a different celebration because of travel restrictions and to practice social distancing, not to gather in groups but still celebration will go on as long as you ‘ll legally take safety measures.

Wishing you all good health and safety!

Mooncake is a sweet Chinese delicacy usually rounded in form contains a thin or thick pastry including the yolk of salted duck eggs to symbolize the moon. The sweet filling is made from red bean paste, mung bean paste, lotus paste to name a few..

Versions of Mooncakes

Mooncake with sesame

Other versions depends on the Chinese country you’re in.

Thanks for reading my latest blog!

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography

Hoping for a COVID-Free Christmas

By livelifeandlove on September 2, 2020

It’s now the 2^nd day of ‘’Ber Months’’ it is running from September-December, it reminds us of the coming of holiday season and countdown to Christmas. What to expect? Is it a spirit to get us even more? We’ll come to that later. At least we now experience a bit cooler weather, we hear Christmas songs on the radio, we usually see Christmas trees and delightful decorations in shopping malls and the fun preparation and excitement to decorate starts but what is Christmas in the year of COVID-19? It is hard to imagine that we will celebrate Christmas differently this year 2020.

Given the concern and restrictions about the Coronavirus pandemic, the reduction of air travelers, it is impossible to think restrictions would be lifted by Christmas. What Christmas Year 2020 would look like? I think, there’s no more holiday shopping, no lucky find in the department store, no more New Year Countdown. At the present time, people are scared to go out into crowds and closed spaces. It is also weird to think that Santa will also wear mask and face shield (personal protective equipment) Can you guess what’s inside Santa’s bag? Is it hand sanitizers, alcohol, liquid gel to destroy the Coronavirus that causes COVID-19? Will Santa have to social distance too? it might be a COVID Christmas and I’m super worried Santa’s ‘’Ho Ho Ho’’ would be Hu Hu Hu…

Expectations from people like me, as an optimist, I’m naturally delighted to what people believe in, it’s a COVID-free Christmas but when you look at your life, something different we look through, the greatest happiness this holiday season is for Santa to deliver vaccine in advance. I think that’s pretty special! Things might not be completely good until there is vaccine.

I’m reviewing my memory list, I’m a memory keeper, I have had a list of old notes from past years, the names of my close friends, colleagues and cousins to share simple pleasures with. I never forget wonderful friends no matter if its COVID or not…

It’s too early to think about Christmas, forget first the frosty decors and the festive tree trimmings, no more planning ahead, no more advance booking to travel, no more Christmas holidays abroad for the family. Other friends, they have to spend Christmas apart because of the coronavirus. Anyway, planning is underway to ensure a safe yuletide season to all. Our presidential spokesperson, Harry Roque said’’ it is still possible to enjoy holiday season in the Philippines. We’ll see, lets pray and hope for the best to come.

Goodnight everyone. Take care. Stay safe and healthy.

Thanks for reading my blog!

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography

Kaibigan Movie Holds Successful Premiere

By livelifeandlove on December 6, 2019

Jesse and Christian Perkins also known as the Perkins twins received support from celebrity friends, family and fans at the Red Carpet Premiere of their movie, Kaibigan. Hosted by by Rico Robles, the Red Carpet Premiere was held at SM Megamall cinema December 3, 2019, Tuesday. Weather may not have been good but despite the bad weather, the Red Carpet Premiere was a huge success.

Some of the cast were on red carpet for the screening and premiere night of the Perkinspiredflix original film. Stephen Andrew Baldwin, an American actor, producer, director, author. He is the father of model Hailey Baldwin, wife of singer Justin Bieber) plays a significant role in this movie, ‘’Kaibigan’’ Jean Garcia cast as the role of Beth Anderson, Mocha Uson as a reporter in this movie, Victor Basa and many more….

Kaibigan is an inspirational movie starring Filipino-American Jesse and Christian Perkins (flaternal twins) were born in the Philippines to an American father Tarny Perkins from California and a Filipina mother Tess Pazziuagan, is a former flight stewardess from Tuguegarao, Cagayan. Tess is also a former classmate of mine. I’m a big fan of the Perkins Twins, I was amazed to see how their acting talent and nice vocals shines through . I’m excited to see your next movie again. Congratulations Jesse and Christian Perkins and to the proud parents, Tarny and Tess.

Kaibigan Movie

NOW SHOWING IN CINEMAS NATIONWIDE

I recommend that you watch this movie

A must- see movie the “Kaibigan” There are exciting and impressive sequences in Kaibigan but in the end is the most memorable touching scene, you’ll also find facts that will surprise you, it’s an inspiring movie with meaningful life lessons to learn and to satisfy every film enthusiast.

Tarny Perkins, father of the Perkins twins thanking everyone who watched the film, Kaibigan.

Red Carpet Premiere of the movie KAIBIGAN

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Arts/ Home Ideas | Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography

Grand Opening of Mario de Rivera~Palace of Memory

By livelifeandlove on September 20, 2019

Time and date: 6 PM, Tuesday, September 10, 2019 At the Art Lounge Manila, a new location for Mario de Rivera, a Filipino Asian modern and contemporary painter, to exhibit his work, he just held the Grand Opening of his One-Man Show. Many came to take in the creative display, as it provides viewers with a wealth of visual stimulation.

Nearly a hundred friends, art collectors, and family members attended, including other well-known figures from the art world.

Highlights of the exhibition include hand-drawn Champagne toasts, a discussion by artist Mario de Rivera about his inspirations, a live performance by a ballet couple, and a slide display of his son Lorenzo’s breathtaking paintings. Creativity appears to be inherited. It was hoped that Lorenzo’s artistic prowess would one day be on par with that of his famous father.

Artistically, Mario de Rivera is well-established at this point. Since then, he has participated in both solo and group exhibitions both locally and internationally. Many auctions have featured his creations. In 2003, de Rivera beat over over a thousand international competitors to take home the Excellence Award at the Beppu Contemporary Art Exhibit in Japan, and in 2000, she was named one of three finalists for the Phillip Morris Award in Manila.

Art Lounge Manila Ground Level Podium ADB Ave., Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong, Metro Manila, Philippines

A catalog richly detailed that shows all exhibition pieces of de Rivera.

The variety of de Rivera’s paintings on display here exemplifies the appeal of modern visual arts.

The patronage of art enthusiasts and private collectors, in addition to the notoriety of numerous exhibitions in the mainstream media, social media, and blogs, has expanded in recent years, contributing to the paintings’ robust structural quality.

To your achievement, we raise our glasses! Mario (second from right) and his wife Luz are the toastmasters. To keep up with the growing demand, I wish you the best of luck. Cheers!

Thanks to Mario de Rivera’s keen eye, we are able to perceive the hidden reality of objects side by side, thanks to the contrast created by the whirling colors and the dazzling accents on the pure color. Style and form, rather than subject matter, are what make a photograph beautiful.

Me with the Filipino Asian modern and contemporary painter Mario de Rivera and Ninica del Rosario (Mario’s cousin).

Taken during the Grand Opening of Mario de Rivera’s Palace of Memory at Art Lounge Manila. (right ) Mario de Rivera, Ninica del Rosario, Me and Edgar Pazziuagan.

Added entertainment that evening, a Ballet duet live performance.

Stunning Paintings of Mario de Rivera

The scope of the whole collection, de Rivera produces the kind of art that suits the purposes of its particular time.

”The Black Dragon River”

”The Dry Season Afternoon”

”Between Sumba and Shanghai”

”Between Diu & Makassar”

”Anapolas Indias”

Atty. Baniqued, (left) Ninica del Rosario, Dr. and Dra Lim also graced the Gala opening of Mario de Rivera Palace of Memory.

Impressive Table Setting full of fantastic party appetizers and tasty finger foods.

Champagne and sparkling wine on the table

Having a solo show of artworks marks the achievement of huge success! The power of art inspired the viewers. I was enjoying the evening with friends around; Ninica (Mario’s cousin) and Edgar P., we all enjoyed the accomplishment of seeing Mario de Rivera’s work on display.

Thank you so much Ninica del Rosario for your kind invitation.

Congratulations to Mario de Rivera on his solo exhibition at Art Lounge Manila!

Art Lounge Manila proudly Presents Mario de Rivera’s Palace of Memory Grand Opening: September 10, 2019/ 6 PM / Exhibit runs until September 24, 2019/ The Podium Ground Level, ADB Ave., Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong, Metro Manila, Philippines

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography

30th Sambali Festival 2019

By livelifeandlove on July 8, 2019

Every town or city has its annual event, either a religious, cultural, thanksgiving or a celebration of bountiful harvests. Whatever the reason, it serves the purpose of bringing town’s identity to honor our patron saint, heritage of culture and traditions. It is also a reason to get out of our daily and stressful routines to spend some time with friends and family and a hospitable practice to welcome, bond and to unite with relatives and townmates living in a foreign country.

Just like any other festival, Sambali celebrates with a series of performances and beauty pageant. Every year, our town conducts its own beauty pageant as popular inclusions.

Sambali Festival is a religious and cultural revival to commemorate Christianity of the Itawis region. It is a weeklong festival that reflects the daily life, culture, religion and history of Piat. This festival plays a prominent role in Piat’s culture and tourism.

During the festival, Piat has many fun-filled activities to engage with, including the Entrance of our Lady of Piat, Floral offering, Dance number, Little Miss Piat and Miss Piat Sambali competition, Farmer’s day, Colorful street dancing, Street parade and Marian procession to name a few….

My townmates especially those living and working overseas, I know, it could be very lonely sometimes if you missed to attend this special day but this blog of mine will feature some of the joyful moods of the people and cheerful Sambali activities during the fiesta. You can catch up and I will reach out to you hoping you’ll experience the same mood while reading my blog.

Municipal mayor of Piat, Atty. Carmelo Villacete with his wife, Beatriz and daughter, Bianca during the opening of the ”30th Sambali Festival” July 23, 2019 Piat Cagayan

Thousands of people attended the festival although, not yet known how many attendees in total. The good news, there’s no traffic congestion prevailed, there’s a smooth flow of traffic for this year 2019. Thanks to the construction of the new bypass route! The bypass is a priority project completed before the town fiesta, it’s an alternate route to divert traffic. My special thanks to Eng. James Garcia.

The mayor who vows to continue more development projects, Atty. Carmelo Villacete and wife Beatriz poses for a photograph in front of bypass, a newly developed project. The two, combining their efforts and inspiring everyone to work together for a better Piat.

It’s a bright future for the people of Piat and I’m here to share your vision. Congratulations for reaching this far! With all the changes and thriving achievements, may you continue your traditions of dedicated leadership and cultural enrichment.

Photos taken during the ”30^th Sambali Festival 2019”

Note: (This is not the full coverage of the Sambali Festival, it’s just a half of it )

Part of the festival is the ‘‘Farmer’s Day” it’s a farm bountiful harvests show featuring exhibits and parading of local agricultural crops.

Our beloved Mayor, Atty. Carmelo Villacete carrying an oversized jackfruit, the mayor of Piat who introduced modern technical in farming and fruit planting. With the help of our mayor, agriculture will surely rise and crop yields will soon increase.

What a festive feeling!

This is a unique kind of float, ”The Kuliglig Float” ( improvised vehicle) featuring Piat’s farm agricultural products.

Presentation of Little Miss Piat and Miss Piat Sambali candidates

Coronation Night Little Miss Piat 2019

Little Miss Piat 2019 Pia Joy Sagalon

Back to Little Miss Piat 2018

Little Miss Piat 2018 Sara Sammoury

My gorgeous niece, Sara Sammoury bags the title ”Little Miss Piat” last year.

Another niece of mine, Miss Piat Sambali 2019 Daphne Louise Aquino

2019 Miss Piat Pagayaya Piatrice Marie Dela Cruz

Miss Piat Sambali Candidates brought out best designs on a variety of formal evening gowns.

Sambali Street Dancing

One fun activity to be enjoyed with is the highly anticipated ” Sambali Street Dancing” this is for the students and other participants to showcase their talents. Students dressed in colorful and spectacular costumes performing choreographed tribal dance.

Dancing takes part on the street as an exhibition space for the performers to illustrate the Sambali war dance.

A traditional style entertainment scene. The street of Piat crammed with people followed by big crowds in colorful costumes beaming with so much Itawis spirit.

The most blessed part is the Marian procession, the feast day of ”Our Lady of Piat” it was an evening procession and despite the rain, many devotees flocked to the streets of Piat. Experiencing weather disturbance, rain didn’t stop but it was a peaceful walk with prayers.

Marian procession is a religious expression of Christian faith handed down by generations. Here in Piat, crowd gathered each time it is paraded through the streets of Piat during Sambali festival held annually on June 23-July 2.

Organizers of this event, devotees, the people of Piat and commuters earlier feared weather disturbance, the approaching brunt of moonsoon season might trigger and disrupt the week long activities especially the fluvial procession but it was just a fair and slight one prevailed. Rain or shine, the festival will go on.

The welcoming and entertaining Sambali festival is a huge success, Bravo! Once again, I would like to express my sincerest thanks to our beloved mayor, Atty. Carmelo Villacete and wife, Beatriz Villacete, Vice-Mayor Leonel Guzman and to everyone who participated in this year’s 30th Sambali Festival. Congratulations! My best wishes to a more successful activities in the future. Special thanks Eng. James Garcia and Mr. Benedict Sto. Tomas Big thank you for all your hard work and perseverance. Well-done!

Note: Want to be featured on my blog? Don’t hesitate. Submit your photos, I will consider any pictures related to this event 30th Sambali Festival 2019. I will add your pics here. Pls. pm me messenger or pm Elvie Baculi (FB) for more details.

Thanks for reading my blog!

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography

30th Sambali Festival 2019 Join us for the big day

By livelifeandlove on June 29, 2019

Many people are heading to the northern part of the Philippines, to Piat, a place where you’re really going to feel the warm welcome of the people. Come and be with ‘’Our Lady of Piat’’ Feel the warm of the festival, the people, the good food and our culture.

Join in, Enjoy the Fun and Share the Good News !

30th Sambali Festival 2019

June 23 – July 2

Piat Cagayan

Bamboo Pavilion of Fengyuan Huludun Park Expo Site

By livelifeandlove on February 1, 2019

Heralding the arrival of bamboo modernity, among the best loved architecture I’ve seen during my recent visit toTaichung. The magnificent Bamboo Pavilion of Fengyuan Huludun Park Expo Site considered as an absolute masterpiece illustrating Taiwanese interest in bamboo architecture.

The architectural trends using bamboo as the main material, the strength to weight ratio succeeds that of bricks and steel remarkably sustainable alternative for such projects. Bamboo Pavilion’s creative and structural element, refined and unique interior and exterior effect represents another turning point of a tropical country, the artistic talent accomplished by Taiwanese artists and bamboo architects.

**Bamboo Pavilion**
**Fengyuan Huludun Park Expo Site**
**Taichung, Taiwan**

Viewing directly from the front, the best way to fully appreciate the beautiful landscape is during sunset, warm lights you’ll enjoy the yellow-orange dramatic sky that gives substance offering a delightful welcome to those arriving tourists visiting Expo site.

Some photos taken during my Fengyuan Huludun visit

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort

By livelifeandlove on January 24, 2019

A visit to Peñablanca leads you to a discovery of a hidden paradise, it’s a perfect hideaway for a relaxing holiday. Cagayanos often talks about the beauty of this resort, a beautiful resort you shouldn’t miss when you are in Tuguegarao, the Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort, a family run resort, it’s here where you can enjoy the exceptional comfort, beauty, affordability and convenience.

My friend Mimi from Tuguegarao invited me to have a brief visit to her aunt’s resort. All three of us; Mimi, Me and Miyam went over to the said place. For overall town view heading to the resort, you’ll pass through the scenic route overlooking the beautiful Pinacanauan river. Upon approaching the entrance, you’ll know immediately why it is called, ‘’ Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort’’ When we were there, we were given a glimpse by Mimi’s aunt into some of their suites, we walked around admiring its vast space, we stopped often to take pictures. It’s just a short tour to show amenities the resort offers, it’s pretty-much everywhere.

What People love about Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort

Note: Rooms and Rates below

Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort located in Barangay Cabbo Peñablanca Cagayan, the resort situated amidst huge hectares of land with a beautifully manicured lawn and a lush tropical garden. Just 20-minutes drive away from Tuguegarao and 35-minutes from Tuguegarao Airport.

It’s your best advantage to book here. It is convenient for long staying travelers. From here, you can easily reach other popular tourist attractions nearby such as; Iguig Calvary Hills, Callao Cave, Sierra Cave to mention a few..

**Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort Front Desk**

It offers many options for relaxation. From its dramatic edge farm view, the standard features enveloped by trees, mountains, a beautiful sunrise and sunset view, it really has the soothing energy of nature.

Tourists and vacationers from elsewhere in Cagayan tend to visit this resort, it’s been a favorite venue for many events, private functions, hosting conferences, corporate events, family reunions, birthdays, Bridal shower, baptismal, graduation ball, anniversary celebrations and wedding receptions.

Many people dream of getting away from a busy life by escaping to a paradise hideaway just like Balai ta Koman, it offers safe spaces for the kids, it’s also a family-friendly resort for summer outings and evening parties too.

The resort features a clean and modern guest room in a 3-storey building, cabana, pavilion, reception lounge, conference room, function room to accommodate your guests, stunning poolside with the magnificent background view of hills and mountains, tree-shaded parking space, sound entertainment system and a sparkling outdoor swimming pool which are primarily designed for daytime and overnight use.

Balai ta Koman divided into different phrases that provides comfortability and top presentation, each has its own unique characteristics.

**Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort is naturally beautiful and clean, it’s quiet different from many other resorts.**

Balai ta Koman has undergone new developments and renovations, it allows you to feel the best that you are longing for. All suites with balconies that offers a wide view of the serene surroundings.

Outdoor Swimming Pool is wide enough to accommodate big families and group of friends.

Balai ta Caronan Farm Resort Wedding Reception and Venues

Note: Rooms and Rates Attached at the end of the article

Dream wedding usually comes true and this is also ideal for you if you have plans in the near future. Attractive lighting accent plays brilliant into the poolside.

**Romantic evening glow of a Poolside Wedding Reception**

**The eye catching wedding venue and poolside wedding ideas is truly sophisticated, charming and casually elegant.**

**Balai ta Koman Farm Resort, notable for their striking presentation.**

Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort ~ Table Setting, Ideas and Decorations

One of the most important aspect of planning a wedding is deciding on what to eat and drink.

The ideal venue

For the gourmet, luscious concoctions of fruits and other delicate aspic creations.

Clarity is good , clear and clean table arrangement.

Romantic table setting

Festive evening atmosphere celebrating with family and friends.

This resort offers never ending series of courses to choose from.

Menus are native, western and other local favorites.

Focal glow when food commands attention as the background lights commands interest.

Truly authentic Filipino cuisine that we always crave for which can only be found in Balai ta Koman.

With a unique and sophisticated wedding platters, best of salads and buffet cookery on the table.

Elegant fruit dessert

Mama Meding’s 89th birthday celebration. A Boodle Fight style, big pile of native favorites are served in the middle of long table.

The authentic Filipino cuisine deliciously fresh with the best ingredient that people come to expect.

Experience the distinguishing features of a good resort for your next holiday vacation, Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort is a perfect destination and a great host to everything you need, pampering awaits you here…

Thank you so much Grace Audrey Caronan

For Special Functions and Social events, reservations and Inquiries

Balai ta koman Caronan Farm and Hotel Resort

Address: Cabbo, Peñablanca Cagayan

Phone: For Booking Discounts Call – 0927 715 5851

ROOMS AND RATES

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography

Paskotitap Lights and Sound Float Parade 2018

By livelifeandlove on December 13, 2018

The evening parade last Sunday December 9, 2018 was truly spectacular! It’s already my 8th year of featuring the biggest and most awaited Christmas Electronic Float Parade. Paskotitap Christmas Lights and Sound Parade is an annual holiday event and a combination of float parade and dance competition. This year’s Paskotitap Christmas Lights and Sound Parade features 14 animated movie-themed floats; Lego Ninjago, Aquaman, Teen Titans, Justice League, Ant-Man, Venom to mention a few. ..

As like the previous years, each float has a new theme and new dimensions accompanied by the dance performers from participating schools:

Kapitolyo High School
Rizal High School
Dela Paz High School
Pinagbuhatan High School
Immaculada High School
Sta. Lucia High School
Nagpayong High School
Buting Senior High School
Pasig City Science High School
Sagad High School
Santolan High School
Eusebio High School
San Joaquin Kalawaan High School
Manggahan High School

The parade route starts at Tiendesitas Pasig and moves down to Dr. Sixto Antonio Avenue all the way to Pasig City Hall for the dance competition. Paskotitap performers (High school dance troupe) wearing their lavish costume perfectly designed and tailored to incorporate float animated theme. All floats illustrate their own theme together with musical sounds, costumed characters and light flashing effects. Truly fantastic!

Paskotitap Lights and Sound Float Parade Schedule
December 9, 2018
6:00 pm
Tiendesitas Pasig City

This holiday event is a big treat to everyone, thousands of people lined up to watch the parade, it is really a big draw of all ages. All animated floats perfectly designed and built by famous artists and other props by the students.

My particular thanks to all Paskotitap organizers, artists, float designers, participating schools, All sponsors, Rotary Club of Pasig, Lion’s club and to our beloved Mayor Maribel Eusebio.

Paskotitap Lights and Sound Float Parade 2018

I would like to congratulate all Paskotitap Dance Competition Winners

1st Runner Up – Nagpayong High School
2nd Runner Up – Kapitolyo High School

Congratulations also to all dancers, choreographers and teachers. The Salayaw Dance Company is the official Dance Group of Nagpayong High School, Congratulations !

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