Balayan is a first class municipality in the Province of Batangas, Philippines. Balayan is bounded by Tuy on the north; and Lian on the west, Calaca on the east and the Balayan Bay on the south. The town is rich among the natural resources of sugarcanes, coconuts and corn. Significant events includes the Parada ng Lechon (every June 24) and the Feast of Immaculate Conception celebrated every December 8 of the year. Widely known products originating from the area include the Bagoong Balayan.
The Parada ng Lechon (roasted pig parade) is one of the festivals in the Philippines. Every 24th day of the month of June, Parada ng Lechon celebrated in Balayan Batangas, and the feast day of San Juan (Saint John the Baptist).
Lechon is one of Batangas delicacy, and even in other provinces in the Philippines such as Cebu and La Loma Quezon City. It’s a main dish most Batagueños have for celebrations or fiestas. According to the old villager, lechon was served before the Spanish arrived in the Philippines. The dish became a symbol of Batangas tradition to serve lechon during celebrations.
These succulent roasted pork form the highlight of the parade ng Lechon, decked out in their platforms with all kinds of décor. Since the Lechon Parade coincides with the feast of St. John the Baptist, be prepared to get wet as people observe the feast by repeating the ritual of baptism - pouring water. Lechon is a roasted whole pig or cattle cooked in charcoal and are the national food of the Philippines. Lechon are cooked during national festivities (known as Barrio Fiestas) and holiday season. Lechon was originally a Spanish cuisine and can be found in many other Hispanic countries. Leche means milk in Spanish and lechon originally meant suckling piglet.
In the Philippines, it is not unusual for lechon or whole roast pig to grace any Filipino fiesta table. Parada ng Lechon is a parade of golden-red and crispy roasted pigs. The delicious aroma of this sumptuous dish made more favourite.
On the event day itself, a mass is held at the Immaculate Conception Church. After the mass, at least, large numbers of lechon are gathered in anticipation of the celebration. The parade proceeds after the holding of blessing of the pigs and people in St. Johns' name. At this celebration, one can witness a hilarious sight when the roast pigs are dressed according to the theme of the participating social organizations. Some of the lechon are inspired like chef, donut, surfer, Filipina, motor cycle rider this year.
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| Filipina inspired Lechon |
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surfer inspired lechon  |
In an event of sheer madness such as this, one can expect mischief just around the corner. During the celebration, pranksters toss water or beer over the lechons, drenching not only the lechons, but the bearers and onlookers as well. Some will even attempt to have a free sample of the roast pig's prized crispy skin.
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| wrap lechon |
Dousing of water during the festival is to signify the baptism of Jesus by St. John the Baptist. The festival is a religious ceremony for the villagers of Balayan. It also gives a place for trade-off to happen.
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| dousing of water |
After the fiesta, the lechons are then brought back to their respective home for yet another celebration of drinking and feasting. As for those who believe in the spirit of sharing, they will gracefully give away their prized lechons to the crowd of audience. But be extra careful, the lechon is rich with cholesterol and might put your health into trouble.
Son plus de plaisir dans les Philippines en raison de Balayan Lechon Festival!
WHAT TO BRING
Extra Tshirt because you will surely get wet even you don’t want to and a bottle of water.
WAY POINTS
WAY POINTS
From manila, ride a bus (BLTB) with a sign 'Balayan' via Tagaytay, the terminals are located in Pasay or Sta. Cruz, Manila. If there is no bus bound to Balayan, ride the one with a 'Nasugbu' sign, alight at 'Palico' and ride a jeepney bound for Balayan.
You can also try the bus bound for Lemery, terminals are found near Buendia LRT Station. Once you are already in Lemery, ride a bus going to Nasugbu and alight at Balayan or ride a jeepney bound to Balayan.
You can also try the bus bound for Lemery, terminals are found near Buendia LRT Station. Once you are already in Lemery, ride a bus going to Nasugbu and alight at Balayan or ride a jeepney bound to Balayan.
