Demonstrating an unwavering commitment to environmental preservation, the 3rd Baguio City's Saleng Pine Tree Festival commencing this June 6, shines the spotlight on "HIRAYA: Celebrating Beauty and Promoting Environmental Action," a beauty pageant that focuses on environmental advocacy and the promotion of sustainable practices within the community.
Derived from the Filipino word "hiraya," which means "hope" or "aspiration," the pageant's title encapsulates the profound desire for a more sustainable future. It serves as a beacon of hope, aiming to inspire individuals to actively participate in creating positive environmental change.
In an interview with Regional News Group (RNG) Luzon, Janeth Martin, an executive committee member of Hiraya, shared insights into the pageant's debut at the Saleng Festival and its underlying advocacy. "The pageant Hiraya is a first-time activity as part of the festival. We came up with the idea to emphasize the importance of our environment," Martin explained.
Distinguishing itself as the first advocacy-based pageant in the Cordillera region, Joel Quinto, the overall director of Hiraya, shed light on the unique features that set this pageant apart from others in the area during the Morning Balitaktakan show with RNG Luzon.
"First, it's not an open advocacy because we focus on environmental actions. Also, what sets it apart is that we are creating a platform for the candidates to have a purpose after the pageant, whether it be in national or international pageants," Quinto enthusiastically shared.
Quinto also highlighted that the Cordillera region lacks its brand of beauty pageants, often necessitating travel to Manila or other parts of the country. "This might be the chance for them to have local adoption here in Cordillera," he added, expressing his excitement about the pageant's potential impact.
Advocacy-driven individuals
An integral part of the Hiraya beauty pageant is its regional screening process, which offers a glimpse into the candidates’ advocacies and provides them with essential knowledge about environmental issues.
During the RNG interview, candidates like Dawn Castillo expressed their insights and newfound understanding of environmental preservation. Furthermore, her advocacy focuses on re-greening the city through strategic urban planning, highlighting the significance of creating a sustainable urban landscape.
"Screening pa lang po ang nangyari pero may natutunan na ako how to preserve the environment along the importance of it. I have realized that our environment should be taken care of and it is something to be passed on to future generations," Castillo passionately stated.
Eula Paltep, a fellow candidate, shared her proactive approach to learning about environmental issues even before the screening began. Her advocacy centers around sustainable tourism, aiming to combat the detrimental environmental effects often left by tourists in their wake.
"Tourists most of the time have this mentality or behavior where they leave detrimental environmental effects to the destination. So, I want to work on the goal of sustainable tourism which is to respect and promote habits that has an advantage to the community," Paltep explained, further emphasizing her commitment to researching ways to mitigate or resolve these issues.
As the pageant progresses, each candidate's environmental advocacy will take center stage, amplifying the importance of their roles as ambassadors for sustainability. Through their respective advocacies and dedication, they aim to inspire others to become conscious stewards of the environment and work towards a greener and more sustainable future.
The final and enchanting coronation night of Hiraya will be on Aug. 19, 2023, at the Melvin Jones Grandstand in Baguio City.
More of the Saleng Pine Tree Festival
Marking a significant milestone in the city's commitment to environmental preservation and protection, it can be remembered that Mayor Benjamin Magalong signed City Ordinance (CO) 02 on January 21, 2022, formalizing the conduct of the annual festival.
This momentous occasion solidifies the partnership between the public and private sectors in their shared endeavor to safeguard the environment. Thus, this year Mayor Magalong has granted the conduct of the 3rd Baguio City's Saleng Pine Tree Festival through Executive Order (E.O.) 61, series of 2023.
Ensuring the revitalization and expansion of green spaces in the city, a vibrant lineup of celebratory activities such as re greening initiatives and seedling distribution has been announced on Saleng Pine Tree Festival facebook page on May 26. These activities will take place from June to Sep. 30, 2023.
Adding to the excitement, both local and national musicians will grace the festival's stages, utilizing the power of music as a potent tool to amplify environmental messages and inspire positive change.
Their performances will serve as a harmonious backdrop, resonating with attendees and motivating them to embrace sustainable practices. By leveraging the influence of music, the festival aims to create a lasting impact, urging individuals to actively participate in environmental conservation efforts.
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