Explosions of light at the Sillag Festival

For a long time, La Union was overshadowed by other local tourism hotspots up north such as Benguet's Baguio City and Ilocos Sur's Vigan City. Recently, however, La Union was able to get back on track after the discovery of its beaches with optimal surfing conditions—specifically in the town of San Juan.

And now, there is another reason, not known to many, why one should travel La Union—Sillag: Poro Point Festival of Lights. The festival is only on its third year, and yet, it is starting to gain traction among local tourists.

Sillag is an Ilocano word for "moonbeam." Very fitting, as all the activities were held at night or just before Poro Point's famous sunset.

Friday festivities

The two-day event held in Poro Point Freeport Zone (formerly Wallace Air Station) in San Fernando City attracted about 10,000 onlookers.


The most anticipated event was the releasing of sky lanterns, but the Bureau of Fire Protection banned their usage. The organizers were forced to come up with other lighted, flying objects: hence, the LED-lighted balloons.

Surprisingly, spectators were not disappointed with this small setback, excitedly embracing the electronically lighted balloons.

The weather on Friday night seemed perfect—not too windy or humid, and no trace of rain. By 8 p.m., about a thousand lighted balloons were released, neon red, blue, green, and orange stars climbing a pitch black sky.

After the ceremony, the trade and food bazaar opened and certain bands filled the night with music. Visitors roamed the sprawling grounds, which were intended to be an area dedicated to industry in the future.

Swinging Saturday

On Saturday night, Sillag festival kicked off with the fluvial parade. Some hundred boats glided through the San Fernando Bay, overlooking Poro Point, while seven electric floats mounted on large boats competed in the parade.


Minutes after the parade, street dancers lined up to showcase their pieces. Only seven groups participated in the event, nonetheless, the kids exhibition were full of energy.

The performers outdid themselves, using all the local lighting techniques available to make their costumes and props beam in a nocturnal performance. Christmas lights were very handy.

The fireworks display was the main highlight of the festival's second night. Festival-goers stopped whatever they were doing for seven minutes to admire the explosions of light. Even photojournalists were stunned, ceasing their shoots to appreciate the dazzling pyrotechnics.

As of this year, Sillag still a long way to go if it aims to top Baguio City's Panagbenga Festival, but it is off to a good start. Surely, it is one of the north's not-to-miss events. — VC, GMA News