Consolacion contingent still undecided on joining Aliwan

CEBU, Philippines — Contingent of Tribu Malipayon from Consolacion, Cebu has yet to decide if it will send a delegation to represent Cebu in the 17th Aliwan Festival in Pasay City this coming April.

Lemuel Rosos, choreographer of Tribu Malipayon, said he will have to consult with the local government unit on this matter.

Tribu Malipayon bagged the championship title in the free interpretation category of the recently-concluded Sinulog Grand Parade last Sunday.

“I think we won the competition because of the sincerity of our hearts,” he said, adding that the presentation was an offering to the Holy Child.

“Regarding the Aliwan, we are not sure yet. Our primary problem is the budget,” he added.

The Sinulog Foundation Inc. will not shoulder the expenses of the contingent that will compete in the Aliwan Festival.

Any contingent that joined the Sinulog Grand Parade can take part in the Aliwan Festival.

On the other hand, Dennis Navarro, choreographer of Barangay Basak San Nicolas Lumad Basakonon, said the group is willing to perform anew in the Aliwan Festival.

Lumad Basakanon finished sixth place in the free interpretation category.

Tribu Lumad Basakanon dominated the Free Interpretation Category in the Sinulog in 2004, 2005, 2007, 2008, 2014 and 2015

Lumad Basakanon earned the Hall of Fame distinction after the group bagged three consecutive wins in the Aliwan Festival in 2006, 2007, and 2008. It also bagged first place in 2014.

The team is known for its synchronized steps and concepts. — Micole Gerard J. Tizon (FREEMAN)