GOVERNOR Amado T. Espino, Jr. led Thursday the formal opening of the 2008 Pangasinan Pistay Dayat celebration with great sounds filling the air in the evening at the Narciso Ramos Stadium, Lingayen.

Pangasinenses and visitors alike were treated to the first-ever historic and highly awaited Grand Orchestra and Dancesport Showdown 2008.

Five orchestras kept the Fiesta orchestra culture alive again in Pangasinan opening the Pistay Dayat (Sea Festival) with a production number to the tune of Malinak lay Labi waltz version and the swinging beat of the song Bongga Ka Day.

The All Star Cast Orchestras featured Lina Abuan Orchestra, Rod Palaganas Orchestra, Caranto Brothers Orchestra and EC Jammers Orchestra. They gave out a grand performance for the audience to prove that the province deserves the claim as the Fiesta Orchestra Capital of the Philippines. ]

Other highlights were the hottest and eye-catching dancesport showdown and the awarding of prizes and recognitions to winners and participants.

After the showdown, an all night ballroom dancing followed.

This year’s Pistay Dayat intends to promote love for environment, enrichment of Pangasinan culture and heritage and youth & sports development, organizers said. (PIO/Chona C. Bugayong)