Manggahan Festival: Thanksgiving for the Bounty Harvest Of One The Sweetest Mango In The World

Aside from the breath-taking beaches, Guimaras Island also takes pride in their sweet, world class mangoes. The mangoes from Guimaras are one of the best mangoes recognized internationally. “Super sweet (almost candy-like) and not fibrous at all - will definitely miss those #food” – as described by one of the most reputable foodie and blogger from NY on twitter (@jolie311).

The Launching Of Manggahan's Mascot

The local government of this Island really assures that their product stays pure by prohibiting non-local mangoes from entering the island so that cross pollination between varieties is prevented. To give thanks for the bounty harvest of one of the best mangoes in the world, the island celebrates its Manggahan Festival every year.

Sweetest Mangoes

During the past years, Manggahan Festivals is held during the month of May but this year, for the first time since this festival started; they are celebrating it this month of April (April 10-17, 2011) and hosts many activities. It is celebrated with parades, folk dances, cultural activities, games and contest which include the highlight of the festival, the mango eat-all-you can (usually paired with “ibos”, steamed sticky rice wrapped in either banana leaves or coconut leaves).

One of the Mango Booth

Manggahan Festival also showcases the different products made out of mango such as the mango ketchup, mango jams and a lot more. Fresh, juicy mangoes are available for locals and tourists alike. There are different kiosks that offer sumptuous local dishes that will surely make you crave for more. One of the things that you should look out for in this festival is the local pageant that shows the beauty and elegance of the Guimarasnon ladies vying for the prestigious title “Mutya ng Guimaras”. You can also attend a cooking showcase that features, mango inspired dishes and appetizers and a lot more.

Salted Cashew Nuts

Mango Jam

Lastly, the Guimaras’ Manggahan Festival will not be complete if there are no bands. Local bands both from Iloilo and Manila come to Guimaras and perform to entertain the hyped up crowd of the festival. This year, they also held the “Kapamilya Night” where Filipino artist from ABS-CBN (One of the biggest Filipino TV Network) went to visit and entertain their Guimarasnon fans.

The Manggahan Festival in Guimaras Island is one of the festivals that you would not want to miss. It is a weeklong affair that is packed with a lot of entertainment and sumptuous buffet of local cuisine.

This year, I celebrated Manggahan Festival with my high school friends. We went there during the highlights so I can experience this year’s festival first hand. As usual, it is still as festive and unique as ever. Guimaras might be a small Island but it shows a lot of promise. If you have not visited Guimaras yet, then you are missing a lot.

See image gallery to feast yourself of the mouth-watering dishes and uniquely designed booths…