The Sumbingtik Festival 2024 highlighted Cainta, Rizal's rich cultural heritage through a grand float parade, colorful decorations, and signature delicacies. Among the thousands who attended was former Ilocos Sur Governor Luis "Manong Chavit" Singson, who joined the festivities as guest of honor.

Coined from combining syllables from the words suman, bibingka, and latik — Cainta’s famed delicacies — the festival showcased the town’s artistry and culinary traditions. Mayor Elenita “Elen” Nieto and Municipal Administrator Johnielle Keith “Kit” Nieto led the grand parade on 30 November, with participants donning traditional attire and creatively adorned floats.

Singson, dressed in a striking Muslim-inspired costume, highlighted his initiatives for public utility drivers, pledging zero-interest loans for e-trikes, motorcycles, and e-jeepneys.

“Lahat ng driver, pauutangin ko,” Singson quipped, emphasizing his willingness to bear losses for the sake of Filipino drivers.

He also promoted his “Chavit 500” universal basic income proposal, offering P500 monthly for unemployed adults, alongside the launch of VBank on 10 December to provide free bank accounts for underserved Filipinos.

The festival underscored Cainta’s commitment to preserving tradition while welcoming innovation, with leaders like Singson bringing forward-looking solutions to local communities.

No comment on Marcos-Duterte rift

When asked about the ongoing rift between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte, Singson treaded carefully, emphasizing his neutrality.

“Wala ako masasabi dun dahil pareho ko sila sinamahan nung kampanya... Kaya nga tumakbo ako as independent,” he said. He called for unity and focus on national development, urging leaders to prioritize inviting investors and strengthening the country’s economy.