Festivalgoers begin grilling bangus (milkfish) during the Bangusan Street Party “Kalutan ed Dalan” on Wednesday (April 30, 2025) along De Venecia Road. The Dagupan city government suspended work in government offices from 12 noon to 5 p.m., except for those providing emergency services, to allow participation in the annual celebration. (Photo courtesy of Liwayway Yparraguirre)
MALASIQUI, Pangasinan – The city government of Dagupan has suspended work in government offices from 12 noon to 5 p.m. on Wednesday to allow employees to celebrate the Bangusan Street Party.
Mayor Belen Fernandez, in a statement on Wednesday, said it is fitting to allow government employees the opportunity to participate in and support this important cultural event.
“The Bangus Festival is a major cultural celebration in Dagupan City showcasing the city’s rich heritage and contribution to the aquaculture industry. The Bangusan Street Party is one of the highlights of the Bangus Festival, drawing significant public participation and fostering community spirit and local tourism,” she said.
However, the mayor clarified that offices providing emergency, health, and other essential services will remain fully operational to respond to the public’s immediate needs.
Heads of offices will determine which employees are required to continue work.
This year, the city again aims to grill 20,000 pieces of bangus across 1,100 one-meter grills along De Venecia Road, with five kilos of milkfish per grill.
Last year’s street party drew an estimated one million people and gave a major boost to the local economy.
Fernandez assured the festival’s attendees that their security and safety have been among the organizers’ top priorities. (PNA)
