In celebration of the 232nd Feast of La Purisima Concepcion of Santa Maria Bulacan, a highlight of the festival was the Chicharon and Santa Maria Business Float Parade. The Santa Maria Water District (SMWD) took an active role in this event, aiming to raise awareness and understanding among local residents about Santa Maria Water District (SMWD) services and initiatives.

It all began with a visit from SMWD to the Municipal Tourism Office to coordinate the parade details. Meetings were convened by the SMWD Gender and Development – Focal Point System (GFPS) to meticulously organize tasks and responsibilities, ensuring everything was executed smoothly.

Brochures covering various topics were created for distribution during the parade, including Violence against Women and Children (VAWC) awareness, si SMWD ay hindi NAWASA, and tipid tubig tips. The objectives were to raise awareness of VAWC, rectify the agency’s identity as the Santa Maria Water District (not “NAWASA”), and provide valuable tips on water conservation to encourage responsible usage.

Meanwhile, the SMWD Dancers were assembled, ready to showcase their talents in the street dancing. Props and headdresses were created to enhance the visual appeal of the parade.

Special attention was given to the creation of floats representing SMWD. The new version of Patak, the official mascot of SMWD, was introduced to the townspeople, serving to create a visual identity and increase recognition among concessionaires. Patak also provided entertainment by distributing candies, especially to children, during the parade.

On the day of the parade, participants gathered at Hapchan Bagbaguin for an early morning assembly time. Mayor Bartolome “Omeng” Ramos and Municipal Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office OIC, Ms. Ma. Nerissa C. del Rosario personally visited each float participant, acknowledging their dedication and presenting certificates as tokens of appreciation.

At 8:30 AM, the parade commenced, led by vibrant floats representing local establishments such as Jenny’s Chicharon, Daboy Chicharon, Dunkin, Banco De Oro, BLC, Ancar Motors, Hagibis, Build Rite and Wilcon, alongside the reigning King and Queen of Santa Maria. The SMWD Dancers, positioned proudly in front of our float, dazzled the crowd with their energetic performance.

The parade route wound its way through the streets, starting from Brgy. Bagbaguin, passing by the church patio, and concluding at the municipal hall. It was a vibrant celebration, uniting the town in joy and festivity.