Giant kalamay takes centerstage at Candon, Ilocos Sur festivities

Residents of Candon City in Ilocos Sur prepared and feasted on a 10-meter kalamay during their town’s festivities. 

According to Kuya Kim Atienza’s report on “24 Oras” Friday, the giant kalamay, described as the “biggest kalamay,” took centerstage during the town's Tobacco Festival, which coincided with its 25th silver anniversary.

Per Candon City Information Officer, Leoncio Balbin Jr., around 100 residents joined forces to prepare the giant dessert.

“The total is 1,867 kilos lahat. Ang composition niyan is 150 gantas, 1,515 na young coconut, 450 matured coconut, 360 kilos na brown sugar. Dinagdag nila ang peanut, pandan, then ube,” he said.

The giant kalamay was shared by an estimated 4,000 to 5,000 people, with some even taking portions home. 

Beyond being a beloved sweet treat among residents of Candon City, kalamay also reflects the community’s rich cultural heritage and long-standing traditions.

—Jade Veronique Yap/CDC, GMA Integrated News