BALANGA CITY – Reinforcing its rich biodiversity and dedication to environmental conservation, Balanga City in Bataan hosted the 11th Ibong Dayo Festival, featuring a series of cultural and ecological activities that highlighted the significance of migratory birds in the local ecosystem.
With the theme “Likhang Sining ng Kalikasan, Lipad ng Maunlad na Bayan,” this year’s festival highlighted the vital role of these bird species in the city’s natural environment and encouraged the community to take an active role in protecting their habitat.
City Tourism Office Head Norlie Castro underscored the event’s significance in promoting environmental conservation while celebrating culture and the arts.
“This year’s Ibong Dayo Festival coincided with National Arts Month, which we celebrate every February. Through this festival, we recognize and honor the migratory birds that travel from other countries to the Philippines, particularly to Balanga City Wetland and Nature Park,” he said.
Castro also highlighted the participation of various sectors in the celebration, including city officials and employees, representatives from national government agencies, non-governmental organizations, schools, and community partners.
“In addition to the parade, this year’s festival featured Lakbay Kalikasan, participated in by students from different schools in the city, where they learned about environmental conservation through lectures and hands-on activities. Other activities included a bird display-making contest, a bird trike float contest, birdwatching sessions, and cultural performances,” he added.
The event brought together the community in a meaningful celebration that blended environmental advocacy, artistic expression, and cultural appreciation. With a variety of engaging activities, the festival reaffirmed Balanga’s dedication to both ecological conservation and the arts, further strengthening its reputation as a haven for migratory birds and a model for sustainable tourism. (CLJD/RPQ, PIA Region 3-Bataan)