CAMIGUIN (PIA) — “Beyond the natural beauty of our island and the sweetness of our harvests, it is the spirit of our people that truly makes Camiguin exceptional,” says Gov. Xavier Jesus as the province kicked off the 45th Lanzones Festival, marking the start of a vibrant celebration that showcases the island’s rich agricultural heritage and cultural pride on October 20.
The event began with a grand parade, followed by a Lanzones Eat All You Can, Music and Kabog Showdown, a display of products at the Agro-Industrial-Tourism Trade Fair, a Lanzones Festival Extravaganza featuring Lanzones eating and trivia contests, a Daos Ki: Festival Food Bazaar, and a Rocktober Night.
“Today, we come together not only to rejoice in the abundance of our harvests but to celebrate the spirit and progress of Camiguin, the province that we are proud to call our home,” said Romualdo. He also urged the Camiguingnons to carry the pride of being Camiguinos beyond the festival and into their daily lives, striving for excellence in everything they do for future generations.
For his part, Rep. Jurdin Jesus Romualdo highlighted the wide array of activities and events that await both locals and visitors during the week-long celebration. “Your journey to Camiguin will be worth the trip,” he stated, emphasizing the cultural showcases, competitions, and natural wonders of the island.
“What we see is what we get; what we know and learn during this short or long visit to the sample of Camiguin will open your minds to how many good things can be found here,” Rep. Romualdo added as he invited everyone to explore the unique charm of Camiguin.
The Music Showdown added a competitive flair to the festival, with the Office of the Congressman emerging as champions, presented by Mambajao and Tupsan National High Schools. Students from Camiguin, Bonbon, and Lawigan-Bura National High Schools represented LGU Catarman, securing second place, while Columbia St. Michael Parish High School and Mahinog NHS, representing LGU Mahinog, secured third place.
In the Kabog Showdown, the Provincial Local Government Unit, with presenters from Fatima College of Camiguin, clinched the top prize. LGU Mahinog took second place with presentations from Mahinog NHS and Columbia St. Michael Parish High School, while LGU Mambajao placed third, represented by Yumbing National High School.
The week-long festival promises more exciting activities as it continues to celebrate the sweet Lanzones fruit and the vibrant spirit of the Camiguin people. “Hangtod Domingo, kanunay kitang mag-uban sa nagkalain-laing mga kalingawan ug pasundayag, nga magpamatood sa talagsaong kultura ug mga talento sa mga Camiguinon,” Gov. Romualdo said.
(Until Sunday, we will always come together in various entertainments and performances, showcasing the unique culture and talents of the people of Camiguin). (RTP/PIA-10/Camiguin)
