In Balayan, fiesta isn’t just about lechon and videoke.
It’s a high-stakes runway competition disguised as a barangay celebration.
The Warm-Up: Tita Entry
Titas from neighboring barangays arrive early, doing a slow-motion walk past the church.
Why? To size up the competition.
Gowns shimmer like they’ve been ironed with sunlight. Heels click like percussion in a drumline.
The more beads and sequins, the more “yes, I am the winner of this fiesta” energy.
Balikbayan Glam Slam
Balikbayans back from Italy don’t just join—they dominate.
Their “simple fiesta outfit” includes:
- Hand-stitched Italian linen that whispers “I know my tailor”
- Shoes that could probably fund a local school library
- Sunglasses that double as telescopes to judge other titas
And they strut with that subtle “I build my boss’s house, but now I’m flexing mine” aura.
The Accessories Battle
This is where Balayan fashion truly shines:
- Gold chains the size of lechon skewers
- Earrings heavier than your average toddler
- Bags that could carry an entire party’s worth of pasalubong
Competitors often pause mid-conversation to adjust their jewels, because you cannot risk a slippage — not when the barangay fashion police are watching.
The Crowning Moment
The mayor gives a speech about community, tradition, and unity… but everyone’s listening to who made it in stilettos without tripping.
By the end, the tita with the most sequins, tallest heels, and most strategic pose for Instagram is declared the Grand Fiesta Fashion Icon of Balayan.
And yes, it’s basically a dress-code duel that could determine the next barangay election… maybe.
Pro Tip:
If you ever attend a Balayan fiesta, wear something simple… because nothing will ever compete with the combined sparkle of the titas, the balikbayans, and that one cousin who brought a gold-lamé jumpsuit for fun.