The Magayon Festival of Festivals Showdown, one of the most anticipated events of the month-long festival, was held last April 21, 2009. Eleven contingents representing eleven festivals from various cities and municipalities around the Bicol Region displayed their creativity and talent in an explosion of vibrant colors, rhythmic dances and songs. Even though the rain poured during the street presentation, it failed to dampen the spirits and exuberance of the contingents and the audience.

The Naro Festival of Dimasalang, Masbate, headed by Mayor Demphna Du-Naga, emerged as this year’s champion, receiving P300,000 in cash awards and an additional P50,000 for outstanding costume design. Naro Festival’s marine life-themed presentation bested last year’s winner, Lapay Bantigue of Masbate City which was adjudged 1st runner up. Lapay Bantigue is a contingent in this year’s Aliwan Festival in Manila.

Lapay Bantigue received P200,000 cash award plus P50,000 for the title Best in Moving Choreography. Meanwhile, the Catandungan Festival of the island-province of Catanduanes was named second runner-up and received P100,000 cash award. The Magayon Festival Legend Showdown, another grand street dance presentation, will be held on April 30, 2009.

Here are some photos of the Magayon Festival of Festivals 2009:

Photo Source: Albay Tourism
Read more about the Magayon Festival of Festivals and other events at the Magayon Festival Official Website.