GUIMARAS — The 2025 Manggahan Festival is proving once again to be a key driver of economic momentum for Guimaras, as the province celebrates its signature mangoes with a 10-day festival that draws thousands of visitors and pumps millions into the local economy.
Now in full swing until May 25, the festival highlights the mango’s wide-ranging benefits for the tourism, agriculture, transport, retail, and hospitality sectors.
“The Manggahan Festival has remarkably boosted the local economy… The economic effects extended across various sectors, helping businesses thrive and creating opportunities for our farmers, fisherfolk, and entrepreneurs,” Guimaras Rep. Lucille Nava said during the opening program.
“This year, we’re introducing more technology-driven exhibits and immersive experiences that will help our producers connect with markets, strengthen local enterprises, and make the festival more sustainable,” she added.
Last year, the festival generated P311.87 million in combined revenues, including P84.47 million from tourism-related activities, P106.18 million from the music festival, P54.43 million from the accommodation sector, P26.34 million from the agri-eco trade fair, and P5.04 million from retail activities.
“Since last year, we’ve not only been promoting mangoes, but also showcasing the diverse agricultural produce and talents of Guimaras. The goal is to give our economy a broader and more sustainable boost,” Guimaras Governor JC Rahman Nava said.
Thousands of tourists are expected to take part in festival highlights, such as the mango-eat-all-you-can event, the cultural street dance competition, and the agri-fishery fair, all of which provide direct income to local vendors, performers, and transport operators.
