ILOILO – The provincial government has placed the award-winning “Cry of Santa Barbara” float on display at the provincial capitol lobby starting yesterday, June 24, allowing residents to appreciate the float which triumphed at the recent 126th Independence Day celebration in Manila.
The display was inaugurated following the morning’s flag-raising ceremony, with the float being illuminated to enhance viewing pleasure for capitol employees and visitors.
Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. and Mayor Dennis Superficial of Santa Barbara led the illumination event.
Accompanying the unveiling, the Kahilwayan Dance Troupe from Santa Barbara performed outside the capitol lobby, adding cultural flair to the occasion.
The “Cry of Santa Barbara” refers to a significant event in Philippine history that took place in Santa Barbara town. On November 17, 1898, revolutionaries in Iloilo led by General Martin Delgado raised the Philippine flag for the first time outside of Luzon, a momentous act of defiance against Spanish colonial rule.
The float display is part of the celebrations marking Iloilo Province’s victory at the June 12 “Parada ng Kalayaan”, where it was declared the grand champion.
After a two-week display at the capitol, the float will be moved to Santa Barbara for local residents to enjoy.
The construction of the “Cry of Santa Barbara” float was a significant investment, costing the provincial government P2 million.
Governor Defensor, sharing details with the media, broke down the expenses: P867,755 for material delivery; P800,922 for float fabrication and installation including materials, carpentry, logos, signage, artworks, and electrical works; P143,463.92 for equipment rental for transporting the float; and P270,000 for dismantling.
Defensor expressed satisfaction with the investment, noting that the float’s display of Iloilo’s rich cultural heritage has garnered further recognition in Metro Manila.
The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) awarded the float grand champion status, and Department of Interior and Local Government secretary Benhur Abalos, Jr. personally handed over the trophy and a P1 million cash prize to the governor.
On the same day, Governor Defensor formally transferred the P1 million prize to the local government of Santa Barbara. Mayor Superficial stated that the funds would be used to enhance the town’s heritage site, particularly around the church area./PN
