FIESTAS
CITY OF SANTA ROSA, LAGUNA – A kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, rhythmic music, and cultural pride took center stage on January 19, 2025, as the City of Santa Rosa marked the 26th Sikhayan Festival in grand fashion.
Coinciding with the city’s 233rd Founding Anniversary, the festival carried the inspiring theme, “Pamilyang Santa Rosa: Progresong Walang Hinto, Sama-Samang Paglago” (Santa Rosa Family: Unstoppable Progress, Shared Growth Together), uniting residents and visitors in a celebration of tradition, resilience, and growth.
Celebrating the Spirit of Enterprise and Legacy of Leadership
Sikhayan, short for Sikap sa Kabuhayan (Striving for Livelihood), is more than a festival—it is a tribute to the entrepreneurial spirit that has transformed Santa Rosa into the thriving “Lion City.” Mayor Arlene B. Arcillas opened the festivities with heartfelt gratitude for the collective effort that drives the city’s progress.
“Ang ating pag-unlad ay hindi lamang bunga ng city officials, kundi ng ating sama-samang pagsisikap—mula sa mga kawani ng pamahalaan na buong pusong naglilingkod, hanggang sa bawat mamamayan at katuwang mula sa pribadong sektor. Kayo ang tunay na lakas ng Santa Rosa. Kayo ang inspirasyon ng Sikhayan,” Mayor Arlene shared.
Reflecting on her father’s visionary leadership, the late Mayor Leon C. Arcillas, she added, “What he started became an inspiration for us all. Today, Santa Rosa’s achievements are proof of what unity and collaboration can accomplish.”
A Showcase of Culture and Talent
The festival’s highlight was the highly anticipated Street Dance Competition, where nine barangays—Sinalhan, Dila, Macabling, Ibaba, Market Area, Tagapo, Caingin, Pulong Santa Cruz, and Malitlit—displayed their creativity and dedication.
Barangay Tagapo emerged as the champion, with Barangay Dila and Barangay Pulong Santa Cruz claiming second and third places, respectively.
Special awards added flair to the competition: Barangay Market Area was crowned Reyna ng Sikhayan, Barangay Tagapo won Best in Costume, and Barangay Dila received Best in Street Dance.
More than a competition, Sikhayan reflects the dedication of Santa Rosa’s barangays to preserving tradition and fostering community pride. The parade, which began in Barangay Balibago and culminated at the City of Santa Rosa Multi-Purpose Complex, showcased the unity and creativity of its people. Adding star power were guest artists Alden Richards and Joshua Garcia, who thrilled the crowd with their performances.
Connecting the Global Santa Rosa Family
For those unable to join the festivities in person, the event was live-streamed on the official Santa Rosa City Government and Sikhayan Festival Facebook Pages. This effort ensured that Santa Rosans worldwide could participate and celebrate the city’s culture and achievements.
Progress Rooted in Vision and Innovation
Vice Mayor Arnold Arcillas underscored the festival’s broader significance as a reminder of the city’s shared responsibility to sustain its progress.
“This celebration is not just about looking back on our accomplishments—it’s about committing to a brighter future for the next generation,” he said.
Santa Rosa is steadily advancing toward becoming a model smart city. Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and guided by its Smart City Roadmap, the city is spearheading key initiatives such as developing renewable energy infrastructure; implementing digitalized and transparent governance; enhancing public transportation systems; and expanding opportunities for businesses and residents in a tech-driven economy.
“Sikhayan 2025 reflects what makes Santa Rosa truly remarkable: a city that thrives on culture, innovation, and shared aspirations,” Vice Mayor Arnold remarked.
A Celebration of Unity and Progress
As the 26th Sikhayan Festival concluded, it left an indelible message: Santa Rosa’s success is built on unity, resilience, and a collective commitment to progress.
With every Sikhayan celebration, Santa Rosa reaffirms its identity as a city of opportunity, innovation, and enduring pride—a city that continues to rise, together.
