SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — Employees of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) held Halloween competitions and activities at the Boardwalk along Waterfront Road on October 30 despite an afternoon downpour.

Organized by the SBMA Tourism Department, the celebration featured Halloween-themed installations, floats, spooky houses, decorations and costume competitions involving SBMA employees, residents and businesses.

The Support Services Group won the Halloween Shack People’s Choice Award and received the ₱50,000 grand prize. The Business and Investment Group placed first runner-up, winning ₱30,000, followed by the Chairman and Administration Group with ₱20,000 and the Operations and Logistics Group with ₱10,000.

In the Halloween Float Competition, SBMA Tourism presented its entry, “Web of Terror,” while the SBMA Asset Management Department showcased “Lihim ng Kagubatan.” SBMA Finance placed second runner-up.

For the Spooky House Competition, open to residents of the Binictican, Kalayaan and Cubi housing areas, the Diño Residence at 35C Mahogany, Binictican, won the championship. The Khonghun Residence at 301A El Kabayo Road placed first runner-up, while the Marzal Residence at 12A First Street, Binictican, finished second runner-up.

In the Halloween Decoration Competition, Emerald Manor by Crown Peak won the championship, followed by Sabressa Cafe Deli Pizza and Kape Rustiko Cafe and Restaurant as first and second runners-up, respectively.

Christian Dantes won the Adult Costume Competition, with Rosemari Aratea placing first runner-up and Jimmy Yabut Jr. finishing second runner-up. They received cash prizes of ₱3,000, ₱3,000 and ₱2,000, respectively.

In the Kids Costume Competition, Mayven James Medina emerged as champion, followed by Asher Amarilye as first runner-up and Amber Amperos as second runner-up.

Despite the unfavorable weather, participants continued with the activities as children and visitors viewed the Halloween displays and attractions along the Boardwalk.

The two-day Halloween program continues on October 31 with a Halloween Night Run and a Trick-or-Treat Extravaganza, according to the event schedule.

The activities form part of the Freeport’s calendar of community and tourism events, with residents, visitors and local businesses participating in the Halloween celebration. (Text and photos by Jun M. Dumaguing for Ang Pahayagan)