Parada ng Lechon: The Pride of Batangas
One of the many reasons why you should visit Batangas is the annual Parada ng Lechon in the town of Balayan. This grand celebration of Balayeños on the 24th day of June is being compared to another huge festival, the Mardi Gras.
Balayan is a first class municipality in the province of Batangas which became popular when the infamous Parada ng Lechon started attracting massive number of tourists – both local and foreign.
Lechon (roasted pig) is a popular dish in the Philippines which is usually served on special occasions. It was only a way of thanksgiving for the blessings received by Balayeños back then. They offer a lechon during the fiesta parade which also commemorates the feast of St. John the Baptist. Throughout the years, more and more lechon were included in the parade which eventually became the reason for the locals to come up with a lechon festival.
This fete is a celebration of life’s blessings and the hospitality that makes Balayeños the one of the most enjoyable people to be with. So if you plan to take part in the most celebrated festivals in the country, make sure to include Parada ng Lechon on your list. Prepare to get drenched with water and fuel up for a whole day of street party and merry making – the Pinoy style.
