SAN PABLO CITY, LAGUNA. Brace yourselves for a week-long carnival of culture and festivities as the much-awaited Coco Festival returns to San Pablo City, Laguna, from January 9 to 15. Under the vibrant leadership of Mayor Vicente B. Amante and his wife, Gem Castillo Amante, the city is gearing up for an extravaganza that promises to be bigger and better than ever.
The heart of the celebration, the city plaza, is adorned with lively and colorful banderitas, setting the stage for a spectacular week of activities. Starting at 5 p.m. daily and extending into the late hours, the city will come alive with a plethora of events that showcase the rich cultural tapestry of San Pablo.
One of the festival’s highlights is the bustling local products market, offering a treasure trove of indigenous crafts, handmade products, and regional specialties. Visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the creativity and craftsmanship that define San Pablo City.
Along Rizal Avenue, food enthusiasts will find themselves in a gastronomic paradise, with a myriad of food stalls offering local delicacies and culinary delights. The tantalizing aromas and flavors of the Cook Fest, a culinary competition featuring the city’s culinary maestros, will further elevate the dining experience.
For those seeking a lively atmosphere, the Beer Plaza is the place to be. It provides the perfect backdrop for friends and families to unwind, socialize, and enjoy some of the finest local brews in a convivial setting.
The rhythmic beats of the street dancing competitions will reverberate through the streets, as talented performers showcase traditional dances, adding to the vibrant energy of the festival. The Binibining San Pablo beauty pageant will grace the stage, celebrating the beauty, grace, and intelligence of San Pablo’s empowered women.
Gem Castillo Amante, the esteemed wife of San Pablo City Mayor Vicente B. Amante, has played a pivotal role in elevating the Binibining San Pablo beauty pageant to new heights. Her unwavering commitment and tireless efforts have added a touch of elegance and grace to the prestigious event. Her vision for the Binibining San Pablo Pageant goes beyond the glitz and glamour, aiming to empower and celebrate the intellect, talent, and beauty of San Pablo’s exceptional women.
Tourists from far and wide are expected to flock to San Pablo City to partake in the Coco Festival 2024. Mayor Vicente B. Amante expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The Coco Festival is not just a celebration; it’s an invitation to experience the heart and soul of San Pablo City. We are thrilled to welcome visitors from all walks of life to join in the festivities.”
Mayor Amante, along with his wife Gem and the dedicated team at the San Pablo City Tourism Office, is committed to making Cocofest 2024 a symbol of recovery and renewal for the community. The festival is expected to serve as a testament to the city’s resilience in the face of adversity after the pandemic.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.