Libon, Albay stages Paroy Festival, honors farmers amid dry spell

Libon, Albay held its annual Paroy Festival on July 22, celebrating the resilience of its farming community amid a severe dry spell. The event, which coincided with the town's fiesta in honor of St. James the Greater, featured colorful street performances and theatrical displays highlighting the stages of rice farming. Seven groups participated, showcasing everything from land preparation to harvesting through dance and performance. The festival, established in 1997, serves as a key cultural highlight for the municipality, known as Albay’s rice granary. The festival’s theme, “Vibrance of Our Harvest,” was emphasized by Mayor Markgregor Edward Sayson, who noted the celebration of Libon’s rich culture, bountiful harvests, and vibrant community spirit. He praised the efforts of the townspeople, stating that the event also honored their traditions, talents, and achievements. Dexter Satuito, head of the street dancing competition, highlighted how this year’s performances reflected the unwavering determination of Libon farmers to maintain food production despite ongoing drought conditions. Participants in the festival included seven contingents representing different aspects of rice cultivation. Each group performed choreographed routines that illustrated the labor-intensive process of growing rice, from preparing the fields to reaping the harvest. These performances were accompanied by traditional music and costumes, drawing large crowds throughout the town. The event served not only as entertainment but also as a means of educating the public about the importance of agriculture in sustaining food security. In addition to the artistic and cultural elements, the local government provided financial support to participants. A total of P200,000 in cash prizes was awarded, with the top performer receiving P100,000, followed by P50,000, P30,000, and P20,000 for the other top finishers. Each participating group also received P50,000 in seed money, intended to assist them in continuing their agricultural activities. This gesture underscored the commitment of local authorities to supporting the livelihoods of farmers during challenging times. Libon is recognized for its significant contribution to Albay’s rice supply, making it a crucial hub for agricultural activity in the region. The dry spell has placed considerable pressure on farmers, affecting crop yields and water availability. Despite these hardships, the Paroy Festival demonstrated the enduring spirit of the community, emphasizing the value of perseverance and collective effort. The event also aimed to raise awareness about sustainable farming practices and the need for continued investment in agricultural infrastructure. As the festival concluded, residents expressed pride in their heritage and the ability of their community to adapt to environmental challenges. The success of the event reinforced the idea that cultural celebrations can play a vital role in fostering resilience and solidarity among rural populations. With the upcoming harvest season, there is hope that the renewed focus on agricultural innovation and community support will help mitigate the effects of the current dry spell.