Guimaras Boosts Tourism Drive as 2026 Manggahan Festival Targets P100-M Revenue

Lifestyle | Tourism Posted on 2026-05-17 07:18:05

ILOILO CITY – The provincial government of Guimaras is aiming to surpass the more than PHP105 million tourism revenue generated last year as the highly anticipated 2026 Manggahan Festival officially opened Friday afternoon.

Governor Ma. Lucille Nava expressed optimism and excitement as the province unveiled a more vibrant and upgraded celebration designed to attract more tourists and strengthen Guimaras’ position as one of the country’s premier agri-tourism destinations.

This year’s festival lineup continues to feature crowd favorites such as the famous eat-all-you-can mango event, music festivals, cultural showcases, the Miss Guimaras pageant, and the celebration of the province’s 34th provincehood anniversary.

According to Governor Nava, this year’s festival highlights a stronger cultural identity and a renewed branding campaign aimed at making the event more colorful, competitive, and reflective of the province’s unique stories and traditions.

Provincial Economic Development Officer Francis Gentoral said the province recorded more than 40,000 visitors during the 2025 celebration, with agri-eco trade fairs and food-related businesses among the top contributors to tourism earnings.

The trade fair alone generated approximately PHP14.3 million in business-to-business transactions and product sales, while food-related revenues reached over PHP10.35 million. Meanwhile, the popular mango-eat-all-you-can activity generated more than PHP832,000 in direct revenue while significantly boosting the province’s branding and tourism visibility.

Despite economic challenges, provincial officials remain hopeful that this year’s rebranding initiatives and enhanced festival activities will encourage repeat tourists and sustain tourism growth.

Provincial Agriculturist Alvin Nava announced that around 18 tons of Guimaras sweet mangoes have been prepared for the eat-all-you-can attraction, approximately five metric tons more than last year’s supply.

Tourists can enjoy unlimited mangoes for PHP100 within 30 minutes, with operating hours now extended until 7 p.m. every weekend to accommodate more visitors.

The province also introduced the renewed festival branding using the tagline “The Sweetest Festival,” emphasizing not only the sweetness of Guimaras mangoes but also the warm and memorable experiences visitors enjoy while exploring the island province.

Provincial Tourism Office Officer-in-Charge Jaypee Kein Entredicho explained that the festival branding reflects the identity and unity of Guimaras’ five municipalities.

The five colors in the province’s mango logo symbolize the municipalities of Buenavista, Jordan, Nueva Valencia, Sibunag, and San Lorenzo, representing the foundation of the province’s continuing development and cultural heritage.

The 2026 Manggahan Festival will run until May 24, featuring a wide range of tourism, cultural, culinary, and entertainment activities expected to further boost the province’s economy and tourism industry.

NPO News Team | PNA-PR

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