Not even the threat of typhoon Betty could stop guests from gathering and enjoying the different activities and sampling the offerings at the different booths at the “Paintings & Panoramas,” the first Kanayunan and Art Festival. This was held at Kala Commons in Amiya Raya in San Mateo, Rizal. This was set against the picturesque 270-degree view of the Metro Manila skyline.
Local entrepreneurs showcased their wares, many of which are homegrown businesses from the area. Native kakanin and treats were served by artisanal food sellers from the area, for everyone to sample. Just the perfect midmorning snack before the main festivities began. As guests were going around, they were also treated to a special performance by the San Miguel 152 band. It was a great way to discover all that San Mateo, Rizal had to offer, not only to residents but also to those looking to settle in the area
One of the special activities at the Kanayunan Festival was a mural presentation by the young artists who are under the care and tutelage of Angat San Mateo community. Aside from sharing their story via a short video, they also did live painting sessions on site that day.
(L-R): San Mateo Municipal Administrator Jose Enrique Desiderio, Vice Mayor Jaime Roxas, Dr. Karen Umayam, San Mateo Tourism OIC Pia Manadero, Mayor Hon. Bartolome Rivera, Jr., Tourism staff Jesus Nazareth Fernando, Guitnang Bayan Bgy. Chairperson Jomer Alejandro Cruz, and Councilor Leo Buenviaje
The program for the “Paintings & Panorama” opened with welcome remarks from Community Creators, Incorporated President and CEO Charina Garcia. She thanked everyone for heading out for a day with family, spent outdoors and close to nature. Hon. Bartolome “Omie” Rivera Jr, mayor of San Mateo Rizal also shared an inspirational message, speaking of the beauty of his municipality, being that sweet spot between city living and the great outdoors right beside mega Quezon City and the City of Marikina. The head of the Municipal Tourism Office of San Mateo, Pia Dela Rosa-Manadero, shared with everyone all the fun and exciting family-forward activities that have become popular in the area.
“Paintings & Panoramas,” the first Amiya Raya Kanayunan and Art Festival, was made possible with the support of Community Creators Incorporated, in cooperation with the Local Government of San Mateo Rizal and the Municipal Tourism Office.
The Kanayunan and Art Festival is one of the traditional family get-together activities from Amiya Raya for residents and locals from around San Mateo. It is the idyllic locale for those craving for a day surrounded by nature and the mountains in cool balmy weather. One of the more popular family activities hosted by Amiya Raya at their clubhouse in Club Vihara is Cinema Under The Stars, where everyone can gather and enjoy an evening watching a movie while lounging in the grass and bonding with loved ones and neighbors. Last Easter, residents got to come out to join “The Great Eggscapades,” where children got to join the Easter Egg Hunt, bunny painting contests, and other fun games.