THE BEAUTY OF

Manaragat Festival

PUBLISHED April 22, 2017

PHOTOGRAPHY and WORDS BY MARIANO SAYNO

You’ve heard the stories. You’ve heard how Catbalogan City rose from a small fishing village to become a booming city in the Eastern Visayas. You’ve also heard about the Manaragat Festival and know it’s a celebration that honors the Patron Saint of the city — Senyor Bartolome — whose feast day falls on the 24th of August.

But what you may not know is that this festival has grown from just a simple fiesta into a call to action. Today, the Manaragat Festival celebrates both the preservation of culture and the preservation of the environment, while also acting as a reminder that no matter what hardships we face, we should persevere and be thankful.

At its core, this festival is a representation of how far Catbalogan City has come since its beginnings as a small fishing village. From facing several calamities to still thriving, the Manaragat Festival is the city’s way to exhibit its strength and resilience.

But what you may not know is that this festival has grown from just a simple fiesta into a call to action. Today, the Manaragat Festival celebrates both the preservation of culture and the preservation of the environment, while also acting as a reminder that no matter what hardships we face, we should persevere and be thankful.

At its core, this festival is a representation of how far Catbalogan City has come since its beginnings as a small fishing village. From facing several calamities to still thriving, the Manaragat Festival is the city’s way to exhibit its strength and resilience.

The festival’s various events are designed to highlight Catbalogan City’s rich history and culture, from traditional dances and parades, to music and games. There’s also a street-drumming competition, a marlin-catching competition, and a slew of different activities for the whole family.

Being part of this festival is a great way to experience and appreciate the customs of Catbalogan City. And the festivities don’t stop there, as the city also partakes in solemn activities such as the mass offering celebration throughout the entire month and the honoring of Senyor Bartolome.

So if you’re looking to honor the patron saint of Catbalogan City and glean insight into the city’s incredible history, then there truly is no better place to be than the Manaragat Festival. And while you’re there, you can also reflect on the importance of joy and gratitude in difficult times — for that is the message of the Manaragat Festival.

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