The provincial government of Guimaras has lined up a full packed activities for its annual festivities known as Manggahan Festival this May.
After two years, these activities will be done in person.
The month-long festivity will kick off with a wide array of activities dubbed “Imbukada” on April 29. These activities include a mass, program, opening of the Agri-Fishery and Eco-Tourism Expo and art exhibit, open dance sport competition and live band.
Taking advantage of the influx of tourists in the island during Saturdays and Sundays, events will take place every weekend with the highlight slated on May 19-22.
The “Mango-Eat-All-You-Can,” one of the most anticipated events of every Manggahan Festival, will return from May 19-22.
Visitors will also be provided an opportunity to experience the mango picking through the Mango Harvest Festival where they will pick and pay what they have harvested.
Other activities that will add color to this year’s celebration are the battle of the bands, cook-off challenge, bike fest, street dance battle, job fair, color fun run with celebrity guests, folk dance competition, and dog show.
The coronation of Miss Guimaras is set on May 20, while the Mr. Guimaras pageant will take place on May 18.
The Provincial Government has also prepared activities for sports enthusiasts who will come to Manggahan.
There are water sports and jet ski showcase; jujitsu; basketball where the Philippine Basketball League will play; and a volleyball tournament.
Nightly entertainment will feature different OPM rock bands. The festivities will end on May 22 marking the 31st anniversary of Guimaras becoming a province.
A thanksgiving mass will be offered before the provincehood anniversary program.
Five competing “hubons” from the municipalities and a non-competing group from Guimaras State University will showcase the rich culture and history of Guimaras in the Manggahan Cultural Competition.
A fireworks display will be held at the Capitol grounds to be followed by performances of two big OPM rock bands on the last night of the festival.JBG/GuimarasPIO/laf/PIA6- Iloilo
