The Filarmónica theatre in Oviedo recently held the 14th Grand Chapter of the Brotherhood of the Disarmament, an event that celebrates the region's rich culinary heritage and cultural traditions. The ceremony was presided over by Mayor Alfredo Canteli, who welcomed various authorities and representatives from brotherhoods across Spain and Europe.
During his speech, Canteli underscored the importance of the festival, which is currently recognised as a National Tourist Interest event and aspires to attain International Tourist Interest status. He stated, "We must continue working to ensure that the Disarmament festival keeps growing, so that more people can learn about it, and that future generations celebrate it with the same pride that we do today. The brotherhood plays a fundamental role in this effort, and I want to express my special gratitude to its senior brother, Miguel Ángel de Dios, whose commitment has been vital in engaging so many people in this worthy cause."
Miguel Ángel de Dios, the senior brother, presented the event, which featured the traditional Disarmament anthem performed by bagpiper "El Pravianu". Key moments included the formalisation of a partnership with the Brotherhood of Wine from Rioja, the swearing-in of 30 new members, solidifying the brotherhood's status as the largest in Asturias with 220 members, and the awarding of the fifth International Poetry Contest prize, "El Desarme en Verso", to poet Adriana Hernández.
Several awards were presented during the ceremony, including:
- Friendship Spoons: awarded to Gema Igual, Mayor of Santander; Conrado Escobar, Mayor of Logroño; and journalist Pepe Marín from Canal Cocina for their significant support in promoting the Disarmament festival.
- Honorary Ambassadors: awarded to the Association of Writers from Asturias for their promotion of regional authors; the Rotary Club of Oviedo for its century-long commitment to charitable projects; and the Ópera de Oviedo Foundation for its support of performing arts and lyricism.
- Honorary Brothers: awarded to actor and comedian Joaquín Pajarón for being a great ambassador of local customs; the Oviedo Basketball Club (Alimerka OCB) on its 20th anniversary for its sporting contributions and youth development; and the technical team of Oviedo European Capital of Culture, led by Rodolfo Sánchez Farpón, along with Paula Mota and Zoe López, for their tireless work in favour of the city.
Following the formal proceedings, a ceremonial parade took place to the courtyard of the Historic Building of the University of Oviedo, where a group photo was taken with all attendees.
