CITY OF ILAGAN, Isabela (PIA) -- The Provincial Government of Isabela has officially kicked off the celebration of the 2024 Bambanti Festival on January 22, 2023.

Festival director general Vice Governor Faustino G. Dy III led the formal opening of the festivities through a thanksgiving mass held at the St. Michael Cathedral in Gamu town, attended by provincial officials, local government officials, other government agency officials and employees, and other sectors in Isabela.

The theme for this year’s festival is “Ettam ngana Ta Isabela” (Let's go in Isabela).

Dy said the festival is a way of giving thanks to all the blessings that the province has achieved.

He acknowledged the contributions of all local leaders in the province and in the cities, municipalities and all the sectors for the success of the Bambanti festival 2024.

“I deeply acknowledge the efforts and participation of our provincial officials and local leaders for making our 2024 Bambanti Festival a success,” Dy said during the opening program held in front of the Capitol.

Dy led the opening of the Bambanti Village together with Department of Tourism Regional Director Troy Alexander Miano where the agri-ecotourism booths, giant scarecrows, local agriculture products, and arts are displayed for the public to buy or appreciate.

He urged Isabeleños to celebrate this year’s Bambanti Festival which started on January 22 and will end on January 27, 2024. 

Meanwhile, the Provincial Youth Development Office (PYDO) led the Isabela-Run for Youth Center, where the proceeds will be used for establishing a youth center in the province as part of the festivities.

At least 13, 245 have registered and participated during the fun run, whicg started at the Isabela Police Provincial Office grounds and ended at the Queen Isabela Park. (MGE/PIA Isabela)