Bel -Air Pasinaya 2012 features Vigan
Bel-Air Village's Pasinaya, which means thanksgiving, has been held annually since 1993 as a way of fostering community spirit and promoting camaraderie among its residents. This sense of community, carefully nurtured by the barangay captain, Mrs. Nene Lichauco, has made life in Bel-Air very colorful and festive. The yearly celebration usually consists of a variety of events held during the month of April at the Bel-Air Phase III Park, featuring various food stalls, bazaars, entertainment, games and perya rides. Kapitana Nene says that their annual celebration, called Pasinaya, brings together everyone — from toddlers to teenagers to senior citizens, and from household staff to corporate CEOs.
She adds that more than a showcase of Bel Air talent, Pasinaya has become a showcase of good, old community spirit. The village also presents its annual bazaar, this time focusing on the heritage of Vigan, with its food and handicrafts on sale.
April 30, 2012 marked the Opening of the Vigan Trade Fair in Barangay Bel- Air Pasinaya 2012 at 4:00 in the afternoon. The cutting of the ribbon was presided by Mayor Eva Marie S. Medina, Barangay Capt. Constancia “Nene” Q. Lichauco and Congresswoman Mar – Len Abigail S. Binay. They were joined in the ceremony by Members of the Barangay Council, the Bel-Air Village Association, Inc. Board of Governors, Women of Bel Air Foundation, Inc., the Sangguniang Kabataan Council and other homeowners. The University of Northern Philippines Cultural Troupe performed their Binatbatan Street Dance and Showdown entries to highlight the kick off activity of Pasinaya 2012.
Mayor Medina an impressive and captivating message. She mentioned that Vigan City is the only UNESCO World Heritage City in the Philippines, awarded as the most child-friendly city nationwide. She also shared the programs and projects that brought about better days to Bigueños. Mayor Eva gave emphasis to the promotion of tourism and conservation of cultural heritage. Finally she quipped : “ Umaykayon diay Vigan.”
The Villagers and visitors came to visit the exhibit and relished the different products from Vigan. They feasted on the mouth-watering Vigan Longganisa, Empanada, Okoy, sinanglao, and other native delicacies. There were 26 exhibitors: 11 furniture and antique shops, 6 souvenir shops and food sectors with gross sales of approximately Php 1,810,000.00.