The annual Mango Festival of the Province of Guimaras celebrates not only the province’s world-renowned mangoes but also the colorful history and rich culture of Guimaras.
Held from May 11 to 22 in the year 2017, the Manggahan Festival showcases Filipino hospitality while highlighting the provincial government’s Community-Based Rural Tourism (CBRT) program.
Fiestas have become an economic driver for locals because fiestas give them the opportunity to showcase the tourism value of their place, their products and livelihood, culture and traditions, according to a statement from the Guimaras Tourism Office.
A new feature in the 2012 Manggahan Festival celebrations was the Mango Man Triathlon.
Multisport Iloilo, a group of Ilonggo athletes, saw the beauty of Guimaras scenery, the cool air and pristine beaches, the challenging terrain can be a boon to the sport they are passionate about.
Kevin Piamonte of Multisport Iloilo articulated that Guimaras is a perfect place to develop sports tourism and to share the passion for this sport to his fellow Ilonggos.
“I wish this kind of event will go on to develop more Ilonggo athletes and foster active, healthy lifestyle,” he added.
The festivities will commence on April 10 with the Manggahan at Robinson’s Mall. This activity will run until April 14, 2012.
Other activities in the 2012 festival included the Disco Derby (April 11); Mutya ng Guimaras Fashion Show (April 13); 1st Mango Man Triathlon & 2nd Manggahan Fun Run (April 15); Street Dancing Competition and Opening Program of the Agri-Trade Fair 2012 (April 16); Visayas Science and Technology Forum and Mutya ng Guimaras (April 17); Mango Eat-All-You-Can (April 18-22), 1st Manggahan Culinary Arts Competition, Guimaras Got Talent (April 18); Mutya ng Guimaras 2012 (April 20); ABS-CBN Kapamilya Night 2012 (April 21); Manggahan Festival 2012 Tribes Competition (April 22).
The activities are expected to increase tourist arrivals in Guimaras, located southwest of Panay Island. The island can be reached via ferry from Iloilo City.
