| BAÑAMOS RATIONALE | |||
| PORQUE BAÑAMOS | |||
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(RATIONALE
FOR THE ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF BAÑAMOS FESTIVAL)
Bañamos is a commemoration of a colorful history and culture. |
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Bañamos
is Spanish for 'we bathe'. The word appropriately traces the founding of
the town during the Spanish period. The Franciscan Friars who were
captivated by the abundance of hot springs and steam vents in the small
settlement of Mainit set up public bathing places with
spring water believed to be holy and have curative effects. These baths
were so popular that they attracted tourists from Manila and nearby
provinces. This convinced the Spanish authorities to officially
establish a town they called Los Baños or `the baths'.
Bañamos is a celebration of great natural wonders and local products. |
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Los
Baños is bounded by two natural geologic wonders: Mount Makiling and
Laguna de Bay. These landforms afford fertile soil, clean air, potable
water, and a rustic ambiance that influence and sustain the livelihood
and lifestyle of residents. These fortunes further gave rise to popular
indigenous products – buko pie, ornamental plants, souvenir items and
various homemade foodstuffs.
Bañamos is a recognition of immense scientific talents. |
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Los Baños
is synonymous to advances in agricultural science and technology,
recognized not only in the Southeast Asian region, but also worldwide.
This Science and Nature City hosts educational and research institutions
that offer opportunities for
study visits or science appreciation and discovery tours to visitors.
Bañamos is a festivity of community spirit and pride of place. |
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This is an
occasion to demonstrate the strong social responsibility and cooperation
values that permeate the citizenry of Los Baños. This is a chance to
show off home-grown
talents and beauties, a time for families and friends to get connected,
as well as to bridge inter-generational and socio-economic divide
through community-wide activities with the support and participation of
government agencies,
commercial establishments, civic associations and other private organizations
and individuals.
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ROBERTO P CERENO |
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Chair, Program Committee |
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