June 24 declared a holiday in Lian, Batangas for Sambuhos Festival

LUCENA CITY – Malacañang has declared June 24 a special non-working day in the town of Lian, Batangas, in observance of the “Sambuhos Festival.”

Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, through Proclamation No. 1321 issued on June 16, said the declaration was intended to give residents “full opportunity to participate in the occasion and enjoy the celebration.”

According to the Batangas Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office, the Sambuhos Festival is observed every June 24, coinciding with the feast day of Saint John the Baptist, the town’s patron saint.

READ: June 24 a holiday in the City of Manila for 455th founding anniversary

The festival is closely associated with the “basaan” tradition, in which residents and visitors take part in water-dousing activities that symbolize renewal and baptism.

Over the years, the celebration has also highlighted Lian’s musical heritage, featuring performances by local musicians, marching bands, and other artists that showcase the town’s cultural identity./coa