At least 17 designed bamboo cannons filled the front of Mangaldan Public Auditorium as locals celebrated the New Year with a unique and booming tradition.

The event, called “Sangka-Bonggaan ya Bongbong,” featured bamboo cannons competing for the best design and the loudest sound.

Some cannons were shaped like grasshoppers, others like dragons.

“Maganda ‘yon, syempre iwas disgrasya,” Oscar Oliva, a spectator, said.

Authorities, including the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), were on standby to ensure safety during the contest.

Prizes were awarded in different categories, such as Best Dressed Cannon, Boomiest Cannon, and Farthest-Reaching Cannon.

Winners received cash prizes ranging from P3,000 to P10,000.

Nelson Caballero, whose cannon won the Farthest-Reaching category, said, “Masaya, [pero] hindi lang ako, lahat masaya... pambili ng panghanda sa noche buena.”

The local government revived this tradition to promote safer ways to welcome the New Year while keeping Filipino culture alive.