The City of Batac placed 5th among 22 cities and municipalities at the Tan-ok ni Ilocano Festival of Festivals 2026, while also winning the Innovation Prize and Best Male Performer.
Batac’s Empanada Festival presentation told a touching story of the Ilokano spirit during Christmas — a season when generosity grows even in times of little.
“Uray iti kinaawan, adda kinaparabur; uray iti rigat, adda rag-o; ket iti tunggal simple nga aramid, adda kinatan-ok.”
Even in hardship, there is kindness. Even in struggle, there is joy. In every simple act, there is pride — the spirit of Batac’s Empanada Festival.
Aron Pitpit, who portrayed the character Niño, won Best Male Performer for his heartfelt portrayal.
Batac also earned the prestigious Innovation Prize, which recognizes groundbreaking ideas that elevate the artistic and cultural presentation of the festival.
The city introduced the “Magic Riser,” a circular stage platform divided into eight sections like an empanada pie. Hidden drawers inside the riser revealed pop-up props such as papaya, itlog and longganisa during key moments of the performance.
Batac also takes pride in presenting a production performed and created entirely by Batacqueños — from the dancers and actors to the choreographers and production team.
