KAUSWAGAN, Lanao del Norte – On Monday, April 24, at the Municipal Pier, Poblacion, the proud Kauswaganons enthusiastically applauded as they participated in and observed the celebration of the “Hugyaw sa Kadagatan” (sea dancing) festival. It was really a day to remember.

Eight clustered contingents from 13 barangays participated in Hugyaw sa Kadagatan, showcasing floats made of bamboo rafts that were adorned to depict the marine life that is frequently found in the municipality.

Every year, the event is held to express gratitude for the plentiful sea harvest and to raise awareness of the need of protecting the environment because doing so also protects humans.

Hugyaw sa kadagatan categories were best in street dancing, gakit (float), and festival sea dancing competition.

Winners received a prize ranging from a cash prize of P30,000 to P200,000 for the grand winner of the Gakit (float) category and finely-customized trophy.

Cluster 2 represented by Barangay Libertad clinched the title in sea dancing and gakit category while Cluster 2 and 4 represented by Barangay Tacub/Libertad bagged the street dancing category. The total prize given for the competition was P1,330,000.

Sea dancing also served as a highlight of the 75th Charter Day and the town’s feast of Senior San Vicente Ferrer celebrated every April 25.

“It’s our 75th Charter Day, 75 years ago we were created as a municipality and at the same time, it’s our celebration for the feast of Senior San Vicente Ferrer,” said Mayor Rommel Arnado.

Arnado expressed gratitude to everyone who attended, particularly to those who assisted in preserving the state of peace and order in Kauswagan and Lanao del Norte province, which is currently governed by MILF commander and BTA member parliament Abdullah “Bravo” Macapaar.

“Ang Kauswagan ngayon we are so blessed, kung sasabihin nating pinakamalas, I tell you now, ang pinaka-swerte na lungsod sa buong Pilipinas is Kauswagan in Lanao del Norte,” said Arnado.