VIRAC, Catanduanes (PIA )-- This island province is celebrating its 78th Catandungan Festival this October in commemoration of its independence from the province of Albay.

In light of this, October 26 has been designated as a special non-working holiday in the province, as per the provisions of RA 11139, which was enacted into law on November 9, 2018, by President Rodrigo Duterte. Also in  alignment with the festivities, all banks will remain closed, as outlined in the Catanduanes Bankers' Association Board Resolution 2023-004.

Several activities have been lined up as part of the festivities which are as follows: Padadyaw sa Tinampo (Oct. 25) to be followed by an opening program at the Capitol Grounds; Ribbon Cutting and Opening Reception of ‘Ginikanan: Culture, Arts & Heritage Exhibit’ at the Capitol Lobby (Oct. 25);  Opening of Catandungan Trade and Tourism Fair (Oct. 25); and Pantomina Showdown (Oct. 25).

During the festival proper, Oct. 26, a thanksgiving mass will be held at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral to be followed by Parade of Faith from Virac Cathedral to Capitol Grounds. A wreath-laying ceremony in honor of Congressman Francisco Perfecto, the father of House Bill which made Catanduanes a separate province from Albay, will take place in front of the Legislative building.

One of the highlights of the celebration is the  State of the Province Address of Governor Joseph C. Cua. This will be held at the Catanduanes Convention Center on Oct. 26. In the afternoon, a Drum & Lyre Corps Parade, Float Parade of Ginoo, Miss Teen and Binibining Catandungan 2023 and Drum & Lyre Corps Competition will take place, to be followed by fellowship night and Fireworks Display.

In 1945, Congressman Francisco Perfecto filed House Bill 301, which separated the province from Albay. The bill was approved on September 26, 1945, and signed into law by President Sergio Osmeña on October 24, 1945.

This year’s theme is: “Catanduanes: Padagos an Pag-Asenso sa Ika-Sitenta y Otso.” (PIA5/Catanduanes)