There are two provincial festivals celebrated by Guimarasnons–the people living in the island. These two festivals greatly reflect the culture as well as heritage of this vibrant province. Such festivals are namely: “Manggahan sa Guimaras” and “Pagtaltal sa Bala-an Bukid”. While the previous is an event giving emphasis on mangoes, the latter is a passion play where tourist as well as locals–will be able to relish the beauty of the island and how rich its cultural heritage is!

Manggahan sa Guimaras

Provincial Capitol, San Miguel Guimaras, Philippines

Originally, this was a week-long festivities however it was changed into a month-long event so as to celebrate the island’s rich culture and their feast of thanksgiving for having a prosperous land where the sweetest mangoes are being grown. This festival is celebrated every summer season to promote the burgeoning mango industry of the island and also to attract tourists.

One of the popular section of the festival, aside from the energetic and vibrant street dance and various activities, is the Mango-All-You-Can. It is a fun and very exciting challenge where tourist should pay a specific amount of money and they need to eat as many mangoes as they can within thirty minutes!  

Pagtaltal sa Balaan Bukid

Municipality of Jordan Guimaras, Philippines

This festival is celebrated during the Lenten Season. “Pagtaltal” is a passion play and one of the most spectacular religious festivals in the Philippines.  It is a street drama which venter at the most controversial historical figure of all time–Jesus Christ.

It starts at the Smallest Town Plaza and ends at the Balaan Bukid for the crucifixion and pieta scene of the Lenten play. This festival draws a lot of tourists in the island and is one of the most awaited festivals in the island.