The Feria Octubre de Rafael 2025 ignited Calaca City with vibrant energy, transforming it into a week-long celebration that harmoniously blended heritage, community, and creativity. From the captivating rhythms of school drum and lyre bands, musical performances. and pageantry that echoed through the city streets, the fair promised a narrative of devotion, artistry, and the enduring spirit of every Calacazen.

The festival officially opened with the Caracol de San Rafael, a revered procession honoring St. Rafael the Archangel. It was a rainy morning and devoted participants walked through the streets offering prayers of gratitude for protection, guidance, and blessings.

Led by City Mayor Nas Ona and organized by the Comite de Festejos , Hon. Coun. Rosalie M. Salazar, the Caracol de San Rafael set the tone for a week of coming together with music, talent showcases, and community pride, reminding everyone of Calaca’s rich faith and traditions.

On October 20, celebrations continued with the Agri Youth Challenge and Arko Quest for the Best, where local youth and agricultural clusters demonstrated their skills, teamwork, and creativity. The winners were honored in a vibrant ceremony.

Agri Youth Challenge

• CHAMPION: Cluster 2 (Balimbing, Matipok, Munting Coral & Makina)
• FIRST PLACE: Nasa Kalaka City Federation
• SECOND PLACE: Cluster 4 (Cahil, Niyugan, Samahan ng Magsasaka sa Tamayo, Lumbang na Bata & Samanhang Agrikuktura Gawaing ikauunlad ng Pamayanan)
• BEST IN PRODUCTION PROMOTION: Cluster 4
• CALACAZEN’S CHOICE AWARD ï Bisaya Hog Raiser’s Association

Arko Quest for the Best

• CHAMPION: Team Poblacion 3 (Dacanlao, Lumbang na Matanda, Makina, Talisay, Munting Coral & Matipok)
• FIRST PLACE: Team Poblacion 5 (Dacanlao, Lumbang na Matanda, Makina, Talisay, Munting Coral & Matipok)
• SECOND PLACE: Team Poblacion 4(Pantay, Bagong Tubig, Bambang, Cahil, Coral ni Lopez & Loma)

On October 21, Sektor Got Talent: Lola Kayo ang Bida showcased a heartwarming performance by the elderly residents of Calaca. Singing, dancing, and comedic acts filled the stage with energy and joy, demonstrating that passion transcends age. Special guest Mr. Rey Valera acknowledged their talent, inspiring both participants and audience members with their dedication to preserving culture and community, as highlighted on October 22. The day featured the Drum and Lyre Exhibition and Higantes Competition, where students from various schools, including Calaca Central Integrated School, Dacanlao Gregorio Agoncillo Elementary School, Pedro A. Paterno National High School, Salong Elementary School, Calaca Academy Inc., and Dacanlao Gregorio Agoncillo Integrated National High School, performed with precision, skill, and energy. The Higantes, towering artistic figures symbolizing history and heritage, were judged based on creativity and craftsmanship. The following are the winners:

FIRST PLACE: Calaca Senior High School – Higantes: Dr. Sharon V. Ona

SECOND PLACE: Calantas Integrated Junior High School, Taklang Anak Elementary School, Cahil Elementary School, Loma Elementary School, Camastilisan Elementary School, Maria J. Lopez Elementary School – Higantes: Aling Conching

THIRD PLACE: Salong Elementary School – Higantes: City Councilor Deovic Ontangco

On October 22, The BMEG Night: Tugtugan Na! brought the city together to live music with Sunkissed Lola, giving the Calacazens energy, rhythm, and community fun. 

On October 23, the Binibining Lungsod ng Calaca 2025 pageant featured young Calacazen ladies whose poise, intelligence, and determination reflected the city’s soul. Sharmaine D. Noche of Brgy. Dacanlao was crowned Binibining Lungsod, followed by Caela May M. Cataquiz of Brgy. Matipok as first runner-up and Kyla Marie S. Bernarte of Brgy. Bagong Tubig as second runner-up.

The festival concluded on October 24th with Mayor’s Night, a grand finale featuring musical performances, award ceremonies, and celebratory events. Notable performers included Lola Amour, Over October, and Jkris Dantes, who captivated the audience. Additionally, the Agri-Fair and Arko Quest winners were formally acknowledged:

Agri-Fair Awards

CHAMPION: Cluster 2 (Balimbing, Matipok, Munting Coral & Makina) FIRST PLACE: Nasa Kalaka City Federation

SECOND PLACE: Cluster 4 (Cahil, Niyugan, Samahan ng Magsasaka sa Tamayo, Lumbang na Bata & Samahang Agrikultura Gawaing Ikauunlad ng Pamayanan)

BEST IN PRODUCTION PROMOTION: Cluster 4

CALACAZENS’ CHOICE AWARD: Bisaya Hog Raiser’s Association Arko Quest for the Best

Arko Quest for the Best

CHAMPION: Team Poblacion 3 (Dacanlao, Lumbang na Matanda, Makina, Talisay, Munting Coral & Matipok)

FIRST PLACE: Team Poblacion 5 (Salong Bisaya, Camastilisan, Lumbang na Bata, Madalunot & Putting Bato East)

SECOND PLACE: Team Poblacion 4 (Pantay, Bagong Tubig, Bambang, Cahil, Coral ni Lopez & Loma)

From vibrant processions to musical spectacles, from dynamic senior citizens to the creativity of the youth, Feria Octubre de Rafael 2025 celebrated faith, heritage, and community in every moment. The festival demonstrated that Calaca is a city united in pride, devotion, and talent, a place where every generation has a role in honoring tradition, embracing change, and illuminating the city with joy, resilience, and the enduring spirit of Pagdiriwang ng Pamana at Pagbabago.