A festival highlighting the important role carabaos play in agriculture and culture was held here on Thursday featuring various activities and competitions.

Held at the Capitol Grounds in Barangay Suklayin, the festival featured the following key events:

• “Karosang Kalabaw: Likha ng Sining at Bayanihan” (Carabao Parade and Float Competition)
• Search for “Panlalawigang Kalabaw ni Juan” (Best Carabao in Costume, Talent, and Body Conformation)
• “Best Upgraded Carabao” (Best Enhanced Carabao)
• “Kalabaw Pintados: Obra ng Kabukiran” (Carabao Body Painting Contest)
• “Bakas ng Kalabaw sa Likod ng Lente” (Carabao Photography Contest)
• “Kalabaw Kulinarya: Timplang Aurora” (Carabao Meat Cooking Competition)

“We are delighted that for the first time, the carabao is being honored here in Aurora. The rain that greeted us is a sign of blessing,” said Dr. Ericson Dela Cruz, of the Philippine Carabao Center – Central Luzon State University, (PCC-CLSU) in his keynote speech, where he explained the various uses of the carabao — from farming, milk production to making leather products such as bags, shoes, and notebooks.

Governor Reynante Tolentino also paid tribute to the carabao as the loyal and hardworking partner of farmers.

“Under the theme ‘Tribute to the Heroic Partner of Juan in Agriculture,’ we recognize not only the sacrifices of our farmers but also the essential role of the carabao in food security and livelihood,” Tolentino said in a speech.

“We will continue to promote programs that strengthen the agricultural sector to ensure a more prosperous and stable future for Aurora,” he added.

During the celebration, it was also announced that PCC-CLSU will donate two male carabaos to the Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) to strengthen livelihood programs in the province.

The festival, which was part of the 46th founding anniversary celebration of Aurora province, was held under the leadership of the Provincial Veterinary Office headed by Dr. Angelo Silvestre. (PNA)