MALASIQUI, Pangasinan – The provincial government of Pangasinan has opted for a simple Pista’y Dayat (Festival of the Sea) celebration this year, cancelling most of its activities.

Gov. Ramon Guico III, in an interview on Wednesday, said the decision was made due to the rising costs of transportation, fuel, and, eventually, commodities.

He said the budget, which was intended for the activities, would be saved instead.

"At pati magagastos ng tao pag pupunta sa event, i-save na lang natin (And even the money the people would spend to attend these events, they just save it). That's the rationale," he said.

"The spirit lives on, but physically, it is a bit of a hard time now."

Pista’y Dayat chairperson Maan Tuazon-Guico, in an earlier statement, said that while this year's festivity will take a more meaningful pause, the Limgas na Pangasinan pageant will continue.

"We deeply understand how much these celebrations mean to every Pangasinense. Yet beyond the lights and festivities, the true spirit of Pista'y Dayat lives on in our unity, understanding, and shared love for one another," she said.

Pista’y Dayat, the mother of all festivals in the province, is a month-long festivity that starts every April 5, the founding anniversary of Pangasinan.

Among the planned new activities this year are the fluvial parade and the music festivals in the province’s districts. (PNA)