Last January 17 and 18, Central Luzon Balita President Angel Faith Danganan attended two of Tarlac’s most awaited events: the Kanlahi Festival and the Kaisa Festival. As a media institution, it’s part of our job to witness these celebrations, just as we’ve done since our early days with Muews Radio.
This year, however, was different. The atmosphere at both festivals was not just about celebration—it carried an undercurrent of political tension. This prompted a question repeatedly asked of us: Which side is Central Luzon Balita on?
Before answering, let’s step back and examine the purpose and highlights of these two festivals, which are meant to showcase Tarlac’s rich culture and community spirit.
Kanlahi Festival: Honoring Tarlac’s Heritage
The Kanlahi Festival derives its name from the Kapampangan word “kanlahi,” meaning “race” or “brethren.” It is a grand celebration of Tarlac’s culture, history, and identity, organized by the provincial government to coincide with Tarlac’s foundation anniversary.
Key features of the Kanlahi Festival include:
- Street Dancing Competitions, where performers tell stories of Tarlac’s past through vibrant costumes and choreography.
- Cultural Exhibits showcasing Tarlac’s journey from its pre-colonial roots to its modern-day achievements.
- Sports and Games, which encourage camaraderie among Tarlaqueños.
- Food Fairs, where local delicacies like tupig, iniruban, and tibok-tibok take center stage.
The Kanlahi Festival is a celebration deeply rooted in Tarlac’s identity, offering both entertainment and reflection on its history and traditions.
Kaisa Festival: Strengthening Unity
On the other hand, the Kaisa Festival focuses on solidarity and collaboration. The word “kaisa” means “together,” emphasizing teamwork among Tarlaqueños. This event brings together various sectors, including government, NGOs, schools, and businesses.
The Kaisa Festival is known for:
- Community Activities that promote teamwork and inclusivity.
- Advocacy Campaigns addressing issues like environmental sustainability and disaster preparedness.
- Intercultural Performances celebrating the harmony among Tarlac’s Kapampangan, Ilocano, and Pangasinense communities.
- Youth Engagement through workshops and competitions that encourage leadership and community involvement.
It’s a festival that looks forward, uniting people toward shared goals and progress.
The Shadow of Politics
Both festivals are undeniably beautiful representations of Tarlac’s culture and unity. But this year, their overlapping schedules and the political tension in the air hinted at something else—an unspoken competition. This was particularly evident in how attendees, including our team, were questioned about allegiances.
As journalists, we understand the sensitivity of these questions, especially in an election year. However, we must emphasize that Central Luzon Balita remains steadfast in its commitment to impartiality.
Our Stand: Neutrality Above All
At Central Luzon Balita, we believe in practicing ethical journalism. Attending both festivals is part of our duty to observe, report, and inform the public without bias.
The Kanlahi Festival and Kaisa Festival serve the same purpose: to celebrate Tarlac’s people. Both events remind us of the province’s rich history and the importance of unity, regardless of political affiliations.
As the May 2025 elections approach, our role is clear: to provide balanced and truthful reporting, ensuring the public makes informed decisions. The festivals may reflect political undercurrents, but our focus remains on upholding the values of journalism.
In the end, the true winners are the people of Tarlac, whose vibrant culture and enduring unity shine through, no matter the circumstances.
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