CAPICEÑOS mark a new era in their centuries-old cultural history when they celebrated ''Sinadya sa Halaran'' on Dec. 4 to 8, with the provincial capital, Roxas City, as center of activities.

Sinadya sa Halaran, which literally means ''joy in sharing and thanksgiving,'' fused two major festivals of Capiz, Sinadya and Halaran, which were celebrated separately before.

Sinadya marks the Dec. 18 fiesta of Roxas in honor of the Capiceños' patroness, Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. Halaran depicts the rich cultural heritage of the Capiceños through sharing and thanksgiving. It used to be celebrated on the last week of October.

The twin festival was celebrated practically by all the people of Capiz in a show of unity that speaks of a determined quest for better life, according to Roxas Mayor Antonio del Rosario.

It featured the rich historical and cultural heritage as well as indigenous resources that, in the words of Gov. Vicente Bermejo, ''make us proud of being Capiceños.''

This year's theme is ''Kalipay sa Pag-ambitanay'' (Joy in Sharing).

The celebration also gave special focus on the Philippine Centennial as depicted in various activities which showed the local heroes' contribution in the struggle for the country's independence.

One of the highlights was the search for the most beautiful Capiceñas through the ''Mutya sang Halaran'' and ''Sinadya Queen'' contests.

Rhea Barredo, 18, of Panay town was adjudged the Mutya sang Halaran, besting 13 other girls. Sinadya Queen was Ana Joy Barza Bellosillo, who was crowned by Makati City Vice Mayor Edu Manzano and Transportation Secretary Vicente Rivera.

A seafood festival was put up along Hughes Street beside City Hall, which showcased Capiz's best seafood delicacies. An agro-aqua industrial fair of local products was simultaneously held beside the capitol.