The provincial government has canceled this year’s traditional Baragatan celebration to commemorate the founding anniversary of Palawan due to COVID-19.
Provincial information officer (PIO) Winston Arzaga said the cancellation was in accordance with the guidelines of the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) to prevent possible spread of the virus.
Tuesday, June 23, was however declared a non-working holiday in Palawan.
“Walang celebration ngayon in compliance with the IATF guidelines. Bawal ang mga gatherings, just a simple commeration. Bale kanya-kanya na lang sa mga bahay dahil wala naman pasok. Kung magkaroon kasi ng gathering kahit simple lang hindi maiiwasan na magdikit-dikit, wala ng social distancing doon. Kaya minabuti na walang selebrasyon,” he said.
Arzaga said that they are instead planning a bigger celebration of foundation day and Baragatan Festival in 2021.
This year’s Baragatan was supposed to mark the 118th Founding Anniversary of the Civil Government of the province.
Traditionally, Baragatan Festival, a month-long celebration held every June showcasing series of events participated by 23 municipalities.
“Hopefully, we will have a better time ahead to celebrate. Kung okay na ang lahat ay open and willing naman si governor to conduct the Baragatan Festival na dapat ngayon ‘yon,” he added.
Baragatan is a Cuyunon term that means “to converge” to celebrate the occasion through the holding of an agro-trade fair, cultural presentations, arts and photo exhibits, float parade, street dancing, food fair, and other activities.
