TACLOBAN CITY- The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Leyte yet sees a glimmer of hope that the city government of Tacloban would forego political bickering and allow the showcase of Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival this coming June.

Leyte Vice-Governor Mimiette Bagulaya confirmed to reporters that the provincial board recently passed a resolution asking City Mayor Alfred Romualdez not to prevent festivities related to Pintados-Kasadyaan this June.

“We passed a resolution requesting the city mayor to allow Pintados-Kasadyaan Festivals on June 27 as agreed… as always been permitted on that date,” Bagulaya said.

She added that the provincial board is hoping that the city government would be enlightened and not forget the agreement that has been made before regarding the showcase of festivals concerned.

“The resolution was passed as we believe that the Pintados-Kasadyaan ought to be continued as its origin dates back about nearly 20 years ago already,” Bagulaya said when asked what prompted them to approve such a resolution.

Bagulaya hinted that the celebration this June is about fiesta and it’s supposed to be an occasion that’s more focused on the church along with some civic participation.

“Fiesta is celebrated to honor a patron saint. And a festival like Kasadyaan should not be regulated or prevented in whatever way as this is a show of adoration of the people. The church has more power on what to say and do on matters like this,” Bagulaya said.

She said if the city, through an ordinance, would really insist about regulating or preventing other festivals and only allowing Sangyaw to dominate the celebration, “then we will have to look at its legality and wisdom.”

Bagulaya hopes that this issue would not mar the fiesta celebration this June as this is one chance of merry-making and thanksgiving to the patron saint. (LEMUEL PAGLIAWAN)