The Story Behind It

The Front view of Sitio Guiwanon situated at the foot of Danao, San Jacinto, Ticao Island of Masbate. Photo Credit: Venancio A. Serrano, Europe based; taken in 2012

The Guiwanon Pasaway League (GPL) was conceptualized in 2005 Sitio Guiwanon Fiesta where the members fearlessly danced together until the dawn breakout. The members without preparation made a simple program in honor of the first pasaway queen, Miss Benilda Almoradie. Right after the coronation, she turned over the cape and scepter to Mrs. Ester Duque.

This was when the whole community witnessed the entrance of the pasaway queens with awe in their hearts. Everything was a just a mere reflection in the eyes of a prankster child. After seven years, the pasaway queen moved back to the Philippines for her vacation. However, people never failed to remind us about the previous pasaway. Yet, everything was kept in our mind, perhaps a little surprise. 

While riding on the motoboat going to Masbate city, the founding mother and I accidentally planned out project that would make people surprise. It was April 25, 2012 when we materialized our desire to make it as an awarding body, which is known as BALOR SAN GUIWANON (Pride of Guiwanon) in cooperation with the Organization of Rodeo Artists and Writers for the Arts (ORAWA). 

This is in honor of the first 38 families who have contributed to the development and sustainability of the Guiwanon community. The awarding ceremony was held on April 27, 2012 during the Coronation Rites. It was a surprise ceremony that inspired people throughout the community.