Benidorm Palace is packed for the 24th FAMPA Marina Baixa School Festival to benefit Asmibe, AFA and AFEM

More than 1,600 people attended the 24th annual School Festival organized by the Federation of Parents' Associations of the Marina Baixa (FAMPA) yesterday afternoon at the Benidorm Palace. The event aimed to raise funds for the parent associations Asmibe, AFA Marina Baixa, and AFEM.

Among those in attendance were the Mayor of Benidorm, Toni Pérez, and the Councillor for Education, Maite Moreno, along with other members of the council, who enjoyed a performance featuring nearly 300 students from the following schools: Nuestra Señora de los Dolores, Leonor Canalejas, Puig Campana, Serra d’Aitana, Vasco Núñez de Balboa, Miguel Hernández, Bautista Lledó, Ausiàs March, Mestre Gaspar López, and Els Tolls; the following secondary schools: l’Almadrava, Beatriu Fajardo de Mendoza, Bernat de Sarrrià, and Mediterránia; the Professional Music Conservatory; the Elementary Dance Conservatory; Asmibe; and the Benidorm Rhythmic Gymnastics Club.

The president of Benidorm Parents' Associations (AMPAs), Pastori Personat, first wanted to "thank the city council for its support" and noted that the associations benefiting from this festival "are those that come to us in..." “These are moments of uncertainty that have helped us navigate our new situation.” “Fortunately, Benidorm is lucky to have many such events, and that’s why it’s a pleasure to share this festival with you.”

Following her remarks, the presidents of the three associations gave brief speeches. Mari Fernández, from Asmibe, emphasised that “we have been present at every edition” and said that “it’s worth fighting for them, our members, and being here.” Francisco Cuadros, from AFEM, also “thanked everyone for this initiative,” and Garbiñe Mondragón, from AFA Marina Baixa, remarked that “every time there’s an event like this, it’s as if our hearts are rejuvenated. After so many hardships, seeing this love, solidarity, and dedication, where everyone contributes their bit, is truly worthwhile.” “On behalf of AFA, thank you for remembering us and joining us on this journey we will take together,” she concluded.

For his part, Mayor Toni Pérez highlighted that “almost 300 children are here today, which is a resounding success.” He also thanked everyone for attending “this afternoon of solidarity” and expressed his conviction that “we are going to have a great time here today.” The mayor, however, asked that “the biggest applause be for the organisations and individuals who care for us, and also for FAMPA for taking care of those who care for us.”

In addition to the solidarity entrance fee, attendees could participate in a charity raffle with more than 25 prizes donated by collaborating companies. The raffle was held during the breaks between the 18 performances by the schools participating in the festival.