lagawan.info

Last November 5, I was able to witness for the first time one of the most colorful festival in the Philippines, the Pintaflores Festival in San Carlos City with my friends Portia, Melay and Ruel. Pintaflores or the Dances of Flowers came from the words “Pintados” – body paint or tattoo and “Flores” Spanish word for flowers that dominated the theme of the festival.

We arrived in San Carlos at around 10:30AM. We then went around to look for available rooms and we stumbled upon Walk Inn at V. Gustilo St. Luckily, they still had one available room left, a dorm-type room good for 4 with common bathroom. The room has 2 double deck beds with aircon for only Php800 per night. What’s best with Walk Inn they have very accommodating and friendly staff.

After check-in and a 10 minutes rest, we then had lunch at a carinderia in front of the public market. Then we went to the assembly area at the pier for a photo op. But before arriving at the pier, Ruel and Portia had some misadventure. The pedicab had a flat tire, so we transferred to a tricycle instead.

Portia and Ruel before the misadventure Photo by Melay of SugarCoated Kismet

When we arrived at the pier all the competing tribes were already lined up for the streetdance competition and we almost missed the first contingent. Then more photo ops for us and after that we went to the second judging area where Enrico is the judge. And another photo and video opportunity for us.

It was really a hot Friday afternoon but it didn’t hinder everyone from flocking the streets to witness and join in celebrating this colorful and amazing festival. All I could say is it was really a one of a kind experience. And I was really impressed with their costumes and body paint.

*****

Pintaflores Festival 2010
San Carlos City, Negros Occ.

Lagawan with Pintaflores Miss Photogenic 2010

Pintaflores Festival Queen 2010