VIRAC, Catanduanes (PIA) - Celebrating the island’s flourishing abaca industry and the resilience and progress of its people, the 7th Abaca Festival with the theme: Talubo Abaca, Sulong Islang Maogma” kicked off on May 22, Monday.
The Abaca Festival started in 2016 following the declaration of Catanduanes as the Abaca Capital of the Philippines by virtue of Republic Act No. 11700. It serves as a homage to the hardworking abacaleros. The celebration also aims to showcase the cultural influence of abaca in the many facets of the Catandunganon identity.
Despite the challenges being encountered by the abaca industry, Governor Joseph C. Cua, said that the provincial government is committed in implementing programs that would help the industry, considering that it was among the major economic contributors in the province.
He also expressed gratitude to all sectors of the community who have been helping and supporting the abaca industry in achieving its full potential.
The festival proper which will conclude on May 27, Saturday, started with a ‘Diana’ along the streets of Virac, Bato, San Andres and San Miguel followed by a thanksgiving mass at Immaculate Conception Cathedral. A parade, dubbed ‘Parada Abaca’ took place and was succeeded by the opening ceremonies at the Capitol grounds.
The opening of “ABACALakbay: Travel Expo” was held at 10 AM at the capitol lobby followed by the launching of Agri, Trade and Tourism Fair at the capitol grounds. A concert entitled “ABACAMusikahan” was held in the evening and was highlighted by a fireworks display at Virac Town Center Metrowalk.
The following activities were conducted on May 23: Awarding of Sustainable Livelihood Grants; Provincial Skills Competition and Abaca Float Parade.
The following activities were lined up for May 24: 1st Regional Executive Board Conference Cum Capability Building Seminar of Bicol Association of Sangguniang Secretaries, Inc. (BASS); Bugkos 2023; Opening of Abaca-Nobasyon: Science Technology and Innovation Conference; Abaca-Nobasyon Exhibits; Press Conference of Abaca-Nobasyon; Abaca Forum; Streetdance Competition; and Metro Bods.
Moreover, a forum on Abaca-Nobasyon will be held on May 25. On May 26, the 2nd Abaca Festival Tennis Tournament awaits tennis sports enthusiasts. It will be followed by a Techno-Investment Forum: Meet and Greet with Local Investors; Best Abaca Project Proposal Final Judging; Abaca stripping contest; Awarding of the Annual Search for Outstading Abaca Farm Family; Supnit: Mga Malikhaing Kaisipan; and Music Festival.
