Christian dela Cruz with his piece, “Wala Aswang sa Capiz,” was unanimously chosen by the judges as champion of the Capiztahan Festival 2023 Paindis-indis sa Binalaybay, with the theme, “Buganang Kultura, Kasaysayan kag Dunang Manggad: Bugal sang Capiz.”
Dela Cruz earned 92.50 points from the competition which was held on April 25 at the Capitol grounds in Roxas City, sponsored by The Capiz Times in partnership with the Capiz provincial government.
Algie Basas finished first runner up with 90.50 points, while Reymark Padernilla with 90.25 points.
Each of them received trophies and certificates of recognition and cash rewards. P5,000 for dela Cruz, P4,000 for Basas, and P3,000 for Padernilla.
Also, there were three special awardees who received P700 and certificates of recognition each. They were Borromeo Valaquio, Alex Tumabiene, and Kin Frago Zabala.
The criteria of the contest are: mastery with 25 percent, presentation of topic at 25%, expression of topic, 25% with a total of 100%.
The panel of judges were Rev. Fr. Rey Villanoy, priest, Immaculate Concepcion Cathedral; Erwin Bonifacio, former Bombo Radyo broadcaster, and presently chief of Project Development and Management Section, DILG-Capiz; Rhiel dela Rosa – office manager, Archdiocesan Social Action Center; Ramon Atinon, writer, artist, and presently, communication assistant in the Office of the Governor.
The tabulation of points earned by the contestants was undertaken by San Antonio Accounting Office led by Donnel himself with his staff, Gladys Arguelles, Ma. Glyn Besana, and Christabel Langurayan.
Program hosts were Chantal Jade Tolores and Ruthsel Cuadernal from Aklan State University.
The said competition was aimed at showcasing the talent and skills of Capizeños in the art of spoken words through the local vernacular, and upholding the historical events, culture and natural resources of Capiz.
As part of its corporate social responsibility, The Capiz Times endeavored to host this competition to share in giving impetus to the celebration of Capiztahan Festival 2023.
In his message, Provincial Tourism Officer Alphonsus Tesoro said the binalaybay contest is a timely event with the celebration of literature.*
