BARANGAY officials in Pinukpuk, Kalinga 'fight' to earn P500,000 project money during the recent Gimpong Festival.
PINUKPUK, Kalinga — The first Gimpong Festival in this town was action-packed as barangay officials faced off in an exhibition boxing match for a chance to win P500,000 worth of projects from the municipal government.
Residents packed the municipal gymnasium and cheered as officials from Barangay Limos and Barangay Bayao squared off in the friendly boxing matches held as part of the town celebration.
Mayor Jimmy Dasayon announced the unusual challenge before the crowd, saying the winning barangay would receive P500,000 worth of projects from the municipal government.
Representing Barangay Limos was chairman Sean Awingan, who was in the blue corner wearing yellow shorts, while Barangay Bayao was represented by Kagawad Lagi Dawaton in the red corner.
The two officials exchanged punches in a spirited but friendly bout that quickly became one of the festival’s main attractions, drawing loud applause and chants from supporters of both barangays.
Awingan was declared the winner and earned the P500,000 project incentive for Barangay Limos.
Another exhibition bout was also held between Pinukpuk Junction and Mapaco, with Pinukpuk Junction emerging victorious.
The exhibition fights added excitement to the festival as residents rallied behind their barangay representatives inside the ring.
Local officials said the boxing matches were organized to encourage the youth to take interest in and support the sport.