The streets of Barangay Pook in Agoncillo, Batangas, recently came alive with vibrant colors, towering displays, and festive music for the inter-sitio Banderitas and Arch (Arko) Making Contest. Spearheaded by the Siglakas Club 2026, the local competition showcased the deep-rooted bayanihan spirit of the residents, highlighting what the community can achieve through shared effort and cooperation.

A Showcase of Inter-Sitio Teamwork

The contest transformed the barangay into a sprawling canvas of resourcefulness. Residents from the seven participating enclaves—Singgalong, Maligalig, Centro, Mauling, Masilayan, Lagundi, and Mariño—poured their time into crafting detailed displays, heavily utilizing recycled materials to bring their respective streets to life.

During the event’s opening program, Barangay Pook Captain, Honorable Rante Alilio, expressed his gratitude for the support and success of the community project. This pride was echoed by Jay Rozon Mendoza, Siglakas Club President 2026, who noted that the final results reflected the dedication of the locals.

“I am very thankful to the whole barangay because I saw the unity of the residents,” Mendoza shared. “I honestly did not expect this competition to turn out so beautiful. For me, all the sitios are already winners.” As a gesture of appreciation for the immense effort, Mendoza pledged to provide additional personal cash prizes for the top three placements.

A Festive Welcome

The bayanihan spirit was not only evident in the creative displays but also in the overwhelming hospitality of the residents. As the judges arrived at each sitio, they were met with grand, joyous celebrations. Original theme music—specifically produced by the locals themselves—filled the air, setting an incredibly festive mood.

Residents cheered loudly for the arriving panel, flashing warm smiles and happily posing for photographs. Going above and beyond, some sitios even prepared special dance performances to give the judges a truly unforgettable and vibrant Batangueño welcome.

The Arko Surprise

While the banderitas were a massive undertaking, the local arches (arko) built by the sitios displayed an exceptional level of craftsmanship. Originally, the arch was simply a factored element of the overall judging without its own separate consolation prize. However, seeing the monumental effort poured into them, Siglakas Club Lady President Maria Jamilah Ortiz announced a spontaneous, dedicated cash prize specifically for the arches.

“We saw the effort of each one,” Ortiz remarked, amazed by the community’s output. “There is no poetry in the hanging, truly it is… wow, that’s all we can say, just wow. Wow, Barangay Pook!”

The Standard of Excellence

To properly evaluate the entries, the organizing committee invited a panel of external judges:

• Glen Rieta: A multidisciplinary web developer, designer, photographer, performing artist, and a BAGSIK (Batangueñong Grupo sa Sining at Kultura) member with roots in local cultural, arts, tourism promotion, and Amazing Batangas’ very own.
• Nina Ubaldo: A visual artist and a BAGSIK (Batangueñong Grupo sa Sining at Kultura) member who advocates for using art as a tool for community education and awareness.
• Dr. Ronnie P. Endozo: An artistic director, choreographer, and educator known for leading groups in national and regional competitions.

The judges evaluated the participating sitios based on a strict set of criteria that emphasized both sustainability and visual impact:

• 40% Design and Visuals: Overall aesthetic appeal, color harmony, and visual impact.
• 30% Durability and Uniqueness: The strength of the materials and the distinctiveness of the design.
• 20% Creativeness and Materials: The innovative transformation and creative use of recycled materials.
• 10% Neat and Clean of Street: The orderliness of the area where the entries were displayed.

A Community Effort

The vibrant event was also supported by the backing of local sponsors, who were tasked with selecting a special “Choice Award” alongside the judges. The community extended its gratitude to to Villa Jovita Resort, RVM Production, Kulafu G, Makeup by Lyka Cabello, Tagpi TV, Ella’s Hair and Fashion, Lanie’s Catering, Lifestyle Catering, Lennie’s Catering, Yael Store, Chicking Wings N Osamgyup, and the SK Federation.

Ultimately, the Banderitas and Arko Making Contest of Barangay Pook served as a vivid celebration of local talent, an unforgettable street party, and a clear reflection of the community’s unified spirit.

For more photos and contest updates, like and follow Siglakas Club’s Facebook page.