CAMIGUIN (PIA) -- Anticipating an influx of tourists during the summer season and the annual pilgrimage dubbed "Panaad," the local government of Camiguin has put in place different activities and summer promotions to make one's stay in the province worthwhile.
Camiguin's "Panaad," slated for March 24 to 31, involves installing crosses and stations of the cross throughout the island, spanning approximately 65 kilometers. Each municipality and barangay prepares by setting up their own booths and activities.
Rutchie Marapao, provincial tourism staff, provided a detailed list of cross stations and their locations. The first station is at Benoni Elementary School, the second at Barangay Hubangon near the health center, and the third at Nouveau Resort. The fourth station is in Barangay Magting, the fifth in Barangay Poblacion-Lakas Chapel, and the sixth in Barangay Agoho. The seventh station is at Barangay Pangyawan, Catarman Bridge, and the eighth at Barangay Looc's covered court. Panaad 2024's ninth station is in Catarman, and the 10th is at Bugang Chapel. The 11th station is at Freedom Park in Sagay, and the 12th is at the Alangilan rice field. The 13th is in Liong, Guinsiliban; the 14th is near North Poblacion, Guinsiliban; and the last is in Maac, in front of the barangay captain's house.
Meanwhile, Gov. Xavier Jesus Romualdo wanted frontliners to undergo training before participating in the Panaad celebration. The governor emphasized the importance of well-trained frontliners during such events.
Although the details of the training sessions are still being negotiated with the Department of Tourism, announcements are expected soon.
Initially, the provincial government conducted a two-day event management basic training on Feb. 27–28. Aimed at enhancing the creative and technical prowess of participants, the event equipped attendees with crucial skills for efficient event handling and management.
"Ang kaning mga kalihokan actually, wala namo ginabuhat para sa amoa, kundi para sa inyoha," Gabriel Salon of the Camiguin Tourism Office said.
[These activities are not created for the local government but for the locals and tourists.]
The Camiguin Tourism Office also recognized the cooperation of their partners and accommodation establishments, especially in coming up with summer promos that will entice more tourists to visit the island.
Aside from an increase in tourist arrivals compared to the previous month, there are also additional establishments that received accreditation. Those interested can also visit the tourism office to get the requirements for accreditation.
As the countdown to the Panaad festival begins, Camiguin invites tourists to join in the celebration of the summer season, encouraging a week filled with cultural richness, spiritual reflection, and the warm hospitality that the province is known for. (PACR/PIA-10/Camiguin)
