It's a wonderful thing I got the chance to attend the recently concluded Pawikan Festival at Nagbalayong, Morong, Bataan last Friday, November 30. But sadly on a side, I missed the part of the releasing of the baby pawikans. My company and I arrived just right after it was done. But on the other hand, we still enjoy the festival because a lot of activities were still ongoing. There's the Father and Son tandem Kite Flying contest that shows colorful kites creations. While high school students join hands in full force in creating a beautiful Sand Castle with the theme of pawikan. One of the activities also is the Body and Face painting competition. My kids try then this one and they love the result of the artwork on their faces.

There is also a corner where visitors can freely touch two pawikans and someone is telling its tale and life. According to him, the hatchlings released will comeback after 20 years to lay their eggs. Imagine how intelligent they are, after a long time they will still come back from their origin. That's so incredible but true. There is also a film showing played for more information and facts that anyone would like to know about the pawikans.

Photo by Joseph Gutierrez of Mabayo High School.

With lots of activities, the festival have small booths at the bayside like the red cross for first aid service, food stalls, and Bataan products sold like buco pie, cashew butter, souvenir items with the theme of pawikan like t-shirt, cap, bag, keychain, magnets, buttons, bracelets and a lot more.

To end the celebration is a Beach concert in front of the bayside of the Pawikan Conservation Center.

It's truly a successful Pawikan festival that celebrates yearly.