25/08/2026
PINOY-OWNED BAR WINS THE HEART OF ESTADILLA, HUESCA
HUESCA, Spain — Every August, the small town of Estadilla in Huesca celebrates its Fiesta Mayor in honor of San Lorenzo, bringing together residents and visitors for days of traditions, music, food and community activities.
TFCN Spain's Sandra Sotelo-Aboy and Dennis Tanoc were in Estadilla to witness the festivities.
Right at the center of the celebration is Bar El Portal, owned by Filipina Fina Palma.
The festivities begin with el Pregón, followed by el Chupinazo, turning the plaza into a lively water party. Other activities include a paella contest, vermut concert, vaquillas, concerts, disco, feria and activities for children.
For Fina, running a business in a small Spanish town goes beyond serving food and drinks.
Over the years, Fina has found success in Estadilla by earning the trust and affection of the community, with Bar El Portal becoming a familiar meeting place for residents.
“Di ba ang number one sa atin ay hospitality? Kaya kapag pumapasok sila sa aking restaurant o bar, pinapakita ko sa kanila na welcome na welcome sila. Yung trato ko sa kanila parang familia,” she said.
The residents have embraced her and her family as their own.
“Kasi nasa akin na ang pagmamahal ng Diyos, kaya tina-transmit ko lang yung pagmamahal ng Diyos sa kanila. Tapos yung servicio ko ay tunay, talagang nasa loob ko ’yun. Binibigay ko lahat sa kanila, kaya nakikita nila,” she said.
Estadilla Mayor Pilar Lleyda Zanuy also praised the Filipino workers helping during the town's festivities.
“They are the best. They are very nice, always willing to help, and provide good service to the whole town of Estadilla,” Lleyda said.
“The town is grateful that you come every year to help us with the festivities and make sure everything goes well.”
The Fiesta Mayor concludes with a Mass and a procession of the image of San Lorenzo through the town and a final concert at Plaza El Portal.
Amid the Spanish traditions filling Estadilla’s streets, a Filipino entrepreneur has found her own place at the heart of the community.
Report and Video by Sandra Sotelo-Aboy and Dennis Tanoc, TFCN Spain
Via The Filipino Correspondent Network TFCN, our news affiliate
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