By Mariela Angella Oladive
The Manggahan Festival 2024, celebrating Guimaras Island’s world-famous mangoes, officially kicked off on Friday, May 3, with a grand opening program, a caravan, and a ceremonial mango-eating event.
Gov. JC Rahman Nava, speaking at a press conference held at Caza Guest House in San Miguel, Jordan, Guimaras, said that this year’s festival aims to attract 100,000 visitors.
Nava highlighted the festival’s potential to boost the local economy and promote the island’s diverse offerings.
He expressed optimism that the event would generate substantial returns, possibly doubling the province’s estimated P30 million budget for the festival.
“This year, we will not only be presenting mangoes, but also showcasing other products that Guimaras has to offer, such as seafood from the surrounding waters, including crabs, lobsters, and various types of shellfish,” Nava said.
Provincial Agriculturist Mr. Alvin Nava announced that the Mango Eat-All-You-Can event has been extended from four to 12 days to accommodate the expected increase in visitors.
Last year, the event drew 5,000 attendees who consumed 8 tons of mangoes over four days.
This year, organizers expect to cater to even larger crowds, offering the mango feast for only 100 pesos per visitor.
The festival, which runs until May 22, will also feature cultural events, street dancing competitions, and performances by top bands and celebrities, including Ben&Ben, Yeng Constantino, Moonstar88, 6Cyclemind, Sunkissed LOLA, and Silent Sanctuary.
Comprehensive security measures have been implemented to ensure the safety of attendees throughout the three-week event.
With its vibrant atmosphere and star-studded lineup, the Manggahan Festival 2024 promises to be the biggest yet, inviting visitors to experience the best of Guimaras and its “sweetest” mangoes in the world.
