Every May, Manila residents and tourists drive out of the capital to Lucban in the Quezon Province to join in the Pahiyas Festival in honor of the patron saint of farmers, San Isidro Labrador. It was a first time for me to witness this revelry and indeed, people flock to this small remote town to take part in this annual celebration. Nearing Lucban, the scenic beauty of Mt. Makiling welcomes fiesta-goers. Cars were already parked kilometers from the heart of the town since vehicles couldn't move through the narrow streets of Lucban. The houses were decorated with native products depicting a victorious celebration after harvest. Colorful leaves are the trademark of the event. A parade is held by various barangays bringing the image of the San Isidro around town. Filipino games like pabitin are done in various homes wherein residents welcome tourists and treat them to a sumptuous meal of native delicacies. Other attractions are the local vendors selling their native products and a visit to the old church. One thing that really makes Pahiyas stand out from other Filipino fiestas is that locals put so much effort in adorning the façade of their homes with native materials that symbolize the harvest season. It has become so popular that it is now made into a competition in Lucban and other towns of Quezon Province.
Quick Tips:
Check out the tourism office for the activities during the Pahiyas Festival. Major sponsors, like telecommunication companies, hold concerts and various activities in the town plaza during this season. If you really plan to be present for the celebration and you do not have a friend living in the area, book the hotels months ahead. Also, it is better to be in Lucban a day or two before the day of the festival since roads are closed and it is such a long walk from the entry point of Lucban. You may go to Lucban even without a guide. Once you arrive at the town proper, go to the tourism office to ask for assistance. Don’t miss to visit the houses that won the competition for some photo opportunity.Best Way To Get Around:
You can get to Lucban by bus or by car. There are no taxis available, so it's better to rent a car. During the Festival proper, it is much better to walk around town rather than drive a car because the streets are too narrow and roads are closed. Park your vehicle within the vicinity and avoid the traffic jam.