Guimaras Island

Manggahan Festival

Celebrating Sweetness in Guimaras

PUBLISHED December 27, 2022

PHOTOS | WORDS BY MARIANO SAYNO

The Manggahan Festival vividly showcases the cultural and agricultural richness of Guimaras, celebrating its world-renowned mangoes with enthusiasm and pride. Through its diverse activities and events, the festival not only honors the province’s agricultural heritage but also fosters a sense of community and local identity. As a vibrant annual tradition, the festival continues to draw attention and visitors, reinforcing Guimaras’ status as the mango capital of the Philippines.

Explore the Philippines through my lens as we venture into Manggahan Festival with Point of View (POV) photography. Using a body cam, I’ll guide you on an interactive tour, revealing the behind-the-scenes of capturing the shots shared here. Let’s dive into this visual journey together and uncover the wonders through my lens!

Let’s explore the PHILIPPINES through my lens as we journey on a photo slideshow to Manggahan Festival. Join me in this visual adventure and discover the wonders captured through my lens! Check out the shared slideshow here.

The Manggahan Festival, also known as the Mango Festival, is a prominent annual event that takes place every May in Guimaras, located in the Western Visayas region. This month-long celebration is dedicated to honoring the mango, a fruit that is integral to the local economy and cultural heritage. The festival not only highlights the significance of the mango but also underscores the importance of agriculture and tourism in the region.

Throughout the month, Guimaras becomes a lively hub of activity, with various events and activities centered around the mango. The festival offers a unique opportunity for locals and visitors alike to experience the rich agricultural traditions and vibrant culture of the province.

Check out the video for more highlights. See what I’ve captured through my lens with Point of View (POV) photography. Using a body cam, I’ll take you on an interactive tour, showing you behind-the-scenes moments of capturing the shots shared here.

Check out the video below for additional features. Explore what I’ve captured through my lens in this cinematic slideshow.

Mango Capital of the Philippines

Guimaras is celebrated for its exceptionally sweet mangoes, which have earned the province the prestigious title of “mango capital of the Philippines.” The sweetness of these mangoes is a significant point of pride for the region, and the festival’s name, Manggahan, reflects this honor, derived from the Filipino word “mangga” meaning mango.

The mangoes from Guimaras are highly sought after for their superior taste, setting them apart from other varieties across the country. This acclaim has become a central theme of the Manggahan Festival, reinforcing the province’s reputation as a leading producer of premium mangoes.

Mango Production

Guimaras stands as one of the Philippines’ major mango producers, with an annual output of over 12,000 metric tons. The Guimaras Super, or Galila, is particularly renowned for its exceptional sweetness and quality. This mango variety is among those officially recognized by the National Seed Industry Council, highlighting its prominence in the industry.

The region’s unique soil composition and abundant sunshine play crucial roles in producing such high-quality mangoes. These favorable growing conditions contribute to the fruits’ remarkable flavor and ensure they are free from common agricultural pests. Consequently, Guimaras mangoes are not only enjoyed locally but are also exported to international markets, including the United States and Australia.

Festival History

The Manggahan Festival was first celebrated on May 22, 1993, aligning with the anniversary of Guimaras’ designation as a province. This inaugural event marked a significant milestone in the province’s history and has since evolved into an annual tradition that draws attention to the region’s agricultural heritage.

Since its inception, the festival has grown in scale and scope, becoming a major cultural event in the region. It serves as a vibrant reminder of Guimaras’ rich history and its ongoing commitment to celebrating its agricultural achievements.

Festival Highlights

The Manggahan Festival features a wide array of activities that showcase the region’s culture and traditions. Key highlights include the Agri-Trade Fair, where local agricultural products and innovations are displayed, offering insights into the province’s farming practices and products.

The Anniversary Parade is a colorful and energetic procession that celebrates Guimaras’ history and culture, while the Mango Eat-All-You-Can event allows participants to enjoy a variety of mango dishes. Additionally, the festival includes Street Dancing and Cultural Competitions that highlight local artistic expressions, and the Mr. Guimaras and Mutya ng Guimaras pageants celebrate the beauty and talents of the local residents. These events collectively contribute to the festive atmosphere and the celebration of Guimaras’ agricultural legacy.

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