Central Cebu District Association of Churches Women’s Ministry Department kicked off the year with great energy as they celebrated Family Day.
The women’s district officers, led by Melvyn Oliamot, president of the CCDAC Women’s Ministry, organized an event themed “CCDAC Family Day: Spearhead Women’s Ministry.”
The event officially began with a warm welcome from Melvyn Oliamot, setting a positive tone for the gathering. This was followed by an inspirational message delivered by Adie Colegado, the wife of CCDAC District Pastor Jemwin Colegado, which uplifted and motivated the attendees.
Ranel Hijapon, CCDAC president, along with Pastor Jemwin Colegado, also attended the event.
The vibrant energy of the CCDAC Women’s Family Day was truly on display as families came together to celebrate a day of fun, unity, and tradition. Held at the Family Park in Talamban, Cebu City, on Jan. 19, 2025, this year’s event brought together women of all ages, their families, and friends to embrace exciting, nostalgic, and empowering games of Palarong Pinoy.
The spotlight shone brightly on Angel Hijapon, who was crowned Best in Traditional Attire – Filipiniana. Angel’s stunning ensemble, a beautifully crafted Filipiniana dress, captured the essence of Filipino heritage and elegance.
The day-long celebration aimed to bring families closer together, encouraging active participation in traditional Filipino games that have been passed down through generations. Activities included tumbang preso, kadang-kadang race, siatung, piko challenge, slipper game, and patintero. Each activity was designed not only to challenge participants physically but also to reignite a sense of camaraderie and cultural pride within the community.
“It’s not just about playing games,” said Babelyn Vios, CCDAC Women’s vice-president for social affairs, and one of the event organizers. “It’s about reconnecting with our roots, strengthening family bonds, promoting a healthy active lifestyle, and renewing our youthful spirit. I believe that if you are healthy, you can serve God freely.”
As part of the festivities, a special Kakanin Cook-Off Challenge captured the hearts—and taste buds—of attendees, adding a sweet and savory twist to the traditional Palarong Pinoy games. This cooking competition showcased the rich and diverse Filipino culinary heritage, with participants competing for the title of “Kakanin Queen.”
The challenge featured a variety of kakanin, from sweet biko to creamy palitaw and colorful inday-inday (made from cassava flour). Each contestant, ranging from amateur home cooks to seasoned chefs, was tasked with creating their own version of these classic treats using locally sourced ingredients and traditional methods.
Judging was based on a combination of creativity, presentation, preparation, and, most importantly, taste.
Marichu Hijapon, a mother of two and a member of Canduman Church, captivated the judges with her unique twist on biko, which featured a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Her creativity and attention to detail impressed the panel, earning her the top spot and crowning her the “Kakanin Queen.”
“I’m so humbled and honored to be named the ‘Kakanin Queen,’” said Marichu, who has been making these traditional treats for years. “It’s a joy to share my love for Filipino food with my family and community. This event means so much to me, and I’m proud to be part of a celebration that brings us all together.”
Adding even more excitement, the highly anticipated Tinikling Dance Contest captivated the crowd and showcased the community’s deep connection to Filipino traditions.
Tinikling, one of the Philippines’ most beloved folk dances, was featured as a main attraction during the day’s festivities. Known for its graceful movements and intricate footwork, the dance involves stepping in and out of moving bamboo poles while maintaining perfect coordination with partners.
Representatives from Canduman Church emerged victorious in the Tinikling Dance Contest, delivering a flawless performance that captivated both the audience and judges.
One of the key highlights was the “Bayanihan Obstacle Challenge,” where each team built and carried a small replica of a “bahay kubo” through an obstacle course, symbolizing unity and bayanihan. The competition was fierce, but the spirit of togetherness and mutual support shone through in every round, prompting cheers from the attendees.
In the end, Banilad Church claimed the title of grand champion in the Traditional Games, emerging victorious in a thrilling series of Filipino games that tested both strength and teamwork.
As the day came to a close, the atmosphere remained vibrant, with everyone leaving with big smiles and renewed spirits.
By Babelyn Vios
The original version of this article is published on the official Facebook page of the Central Cebu District Association of Churches.