PAVIA, Iloilo – Cheers erupted from spectators as Barangay Purok 1 claimed the championship title in this year’s much-anticipated carabao carroza race, the highlight of the 53rd Carabao Carroza Festival, held on Saturday, May 3.
Veteran racer Hernani Deriada of Purok 1 led his carabao to a thrilling finish, outracing competitors from across the municipality in the traditional race along Pavia National High School’s field.
The annual event showcases the strength, discipline, and deep cultural connection of farmers and their trusted carabaos.
Placing second was Jun Rey Malones of Barangay Cabugao Sur while Joseph Hismania of Baranagy Ungka 1 finished third in the race, which remains one of Iloilo’s most iconic and beloved cultural spectacles.
The festival also featured colorful floats and choreographed performances during the barangay parade, where Baranagy Tigum emerged as the overall champion in two major categories.
Tigum topped both the Best in Barangay Parade Group and Best in Carabao and Carroza awards, affirming its creative and cultural strength in the festival. Other top performers include barangays Ungka 2, Mali-ao, Pandac, and Pagsanga-an in the parade group category, and barangays Ungka 2, Mali-ao, Cabugao Sur, and Jibao-an in the carabao and carroza category.
The Carabao Carroza Festival, held annually in Pavia since 1973, continues to celebrate the vital role of the carabao in Filipino agricultural life while fostering unity and pride among the town’s 18 barangays./PN
