Yam Concepcion, one of Viva Entertainment’s newest talents, was seen recently sporting a cowgirl outfit and learning some cowgirl techniques in the province of Masbate, the home of Philippine rodeo.
The former FHM and Maxim cover girl was invited by Rodeo Masbateno Inc. (RMI), the lead organization in charge of Rodeo Festival 2013, to grace its recent launch. Yam visited one of Masbate’s famous landmarks, the Grand Rodeo Arena, where she learned how to do cattle lassoing and whip cracking.
Horseback parade
Yam joined the parade of cowboys and cowgirls at the launch of the festival, which will be held from April 1 to 15 in Masbate City. The parade was led on horseback by RMI directors Sofronio Arizala, Edgar Ramos and Edwin Du.
Yam, who is also a musician, being the drummer of Ursa Minor, sang and played the ukulele during the program.
Ranch tour
Yam’s visit to Masbate included a ranch tour. Yam visited the ranch of RMI president, Judge Manuel “Bebot” Sese, where she witnessed some of the festival events, such as bull casting and wrestling.
“We are fully energized to make the 2013 Rodeo Festival more exciting. We aim to satisfy the local and foreign tourists who have been looking forward to participating in the Rodeo National Finals, an adrenaline-filled event,” said RMI acting president Felimon C. Abelita III.
The launch of Rodeo Festival 2013 also saw the unveiling of the event logo by Masbate
Gov. Dayan Lanete, Vice Gov. Vince Revil and RMI directors; the presentation of the Rodeo Academy site development plan and the Rodeo Festival 2013 radio and television ads; and the awarding of 2013 badges to rodeo volunteers.
The yearly celebration of the Rodeo Festival has been a vital part of the culture of Masbateños. The national finals of the best cowboys in the country will be held on April 9 to 13.
As for Yam, her experience as a cowgirl, even for a single day, has given her a different appreciation of life in a ranch and, most especially, a deeper sense of respect for the cowboys and cowgirls who tirelessly take care of the animals there.