BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya, May 16(PIA) – The provincial government here has allotted more than P4.8 million for the upcoming celebration of the province’s 174th Founding Anniversary next week.

Dubbed 5th Grand ‘Ammungan’ Festival from May 19 to 24, the event seeks to gather the ethnic tribes of the province such as the Isinai, Ibaloi, Kalanguya, Iwak, Gaddang, Bugkalot, Kankanaey, Ifugao including lowland inhabitants such as the Ilocanos, Tagalogs and Pangasinenses,among others.

The term ‘Ammungan’(gathering) was popularized in 1989 and 1996 to showcase the culture of indigenous people in Nueva Vizcaya. In 2009, the grand festival paved the way to the birth of Tribu-Biscayano-conglomeration of the different indigenous peoples in the province.

“This year, we want to apply whatever income for the event. Let’s do away with many speeches and instead focus on entertainment and fun for our children,” said Alejandra Dacumos, the event’s director-general.

With the theme: Makisaya, Makisama, Magkaisa!, features the following major events: The Runway Superstar/Animal Show which highlights Novo Vizcayanos’ natural devotion and affection to special breed of dogs, Gabi ng Panginoon , a night full of songs and praises from various religious sects, Tugtugan sa Park –a concert filled activity featuring local bands and talents, Best Hut at Tribu Vizcayano Village which will also showcase local products from the 15 municipalities of the province and the Indakan sa Kalye – a street dancing competition participated by various sectors.

Other shows are the Cultural and Indigenous Peoples Night which will showcase the unique culture and traditions of various tribes, Children’s Day, where various games and child-friendly programs and activities will be offered, local beauties of the province will also be highlighted with the conduct of the Search for Saniata ti Tribu Vizcayano at the provincial capitol, People’s Night with Orchestra with the participation of the 276 barangays of Nueva Vizcaya, Grand Parade and Float Competition and the Variety Show with Celebrities.

During the event, government services and assistance will also be offered for free such as Philippine Regulations Commission(PRC) licensing, medical,dental,surgical mission, agri-trade fair, jobs fair and Diabetic Screening, among others.

The week-long celebration will be highlighted on May 24, a special non-working holiday in the province. It also marked the foundation day of the province in accordance with the royal decree of Spain.

The major sponsors of the week-long festival are CalEnergy, Land Bank of the Philippines, SMART, SN Aboitiz, Smith Bell Group, coca Cola, Department of Tourism(DOT), Association of Provincial Executives(APEX), Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Employees Association(NVPEA) while the event sponsors are Department of Education(DepEd), San Miguel Corporation(SMC), G & B Buko Pie, Greenwitch, Vivas BUko, SMIS and Blue Hot and Cold Snack Hauz.