Festivals have gathered millions all over the world. In our country, the Philippines, fiesta has been a great part of our culture. Each city celebrates at least one of its own. We'll never ran out of reason to hold fiestas.
Just recently, I got the privilege to witness the 1st MiMaRoPa Festival. Coinciding the 65th Founding Anniversary of the province, Oriental Mindoro hosted this historic first.
The MIMAROPA (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan) Festival is a grand event showcasing the region's finest products in agriculture, tourism and trade represented through a dance parade competition, pageantry and trade fair. It is aimed to be celebrated every year and hosted by each province/ city of the region.
Here's what I love about the MIMAROPA Festival.
1. It highlights the best talents of the region.
The MIMAROPA Festival showcases not one, not two, but at least 6 dance festivals. There's the Sandugo Cultural Dance from Oriental Mindoro, the Kalap Festival of Calapan City, the Arawatan Festival of Occidental Mindoro, Marinduque's Bila- Bila Festival, the Biniray Festival of Romblon , and Palawan's Baragatan Festival.
The contingents for the dance festival are winners from their city/ province so one gets to see only the best performances.
For the 1st MIMAROPA Dance Parade Competition, Palawan bagged the award; Marinduque placed 2nd and Romblon ,3rd.
2. Beauties abound.
Men will have a feast for their eyes and pageant enthusiasts will surely enjoy the MIMAROPA Festival Queen contest. Each province of the region picked the most beautiful and witty candidates to represent them.
Miss Palawan, Sharla Santillan, was crowned 1st MIMAROPA Festival Queen.
3. It help promotes local products.
During the festival, the Capitolio opened its door for an agri trade fair. Booths from the provinces showcased its own products- from crafts, fruits, veggies, wine plus a lot more.
Indeed, we must buy local. It helps our local farmers and entrepreneurs and eating local is 'green'.
4. Unity at its finest.
The provinces of MIMAROPA gave their utmost support for the event. While the government of Oriental Mindoro spearheaded this affair, the other provinces did not fall short in extending their help. Palawan flew their contingents by plane to participate in the dance parade competition. Miss Marinduque travelled to Batangas then Calapan to represent. Truly, all exerted effort to make this festival a huge event!
5. It's the next big thing in the Philippines.
You may have witnessed the Masskara Festival or the Penagbenga or the Ati-atihan Festival. But you will only experience many festivals rolled into one in MIMAROPA Festival.
The region and DOT also plans of making MIMAROPA a destination of choice. They plan to promote tourism via cruise which will connect Malaysia and the provinces of the region. Isnt that fantabulous?!
Ive been to Palawan, Marinduque, Puerto Galera and Romblon (Occidental Mindoro, soon) and I really cant resist their charms. Now to link all their major tourism attractions for a cruise-awesome! Can't wait.
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I hope to be back again next year. Will the next MIMAROPA Festival be held in Romblon, Marinduque. Palawan or Occidental Mindoro? We'll find out soon.
Leaving you this video of the fun I had in the MIMAROPA Festival. :)
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The Filipino Rambler is a vibrant travel and food blog that serves as a delightful guide to the beauty of the Philippines. Explore enchanting destinations, savor culinary delights at hidden gems, and stay updated on the hippest events across the archipelago. With a passionate advocacy for Philippine tourism, The Filipino Rambler is your go-to source for discovering the rich tapestry of culture, flavors, and experiences that make the Philippines a must-visit destination
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