A FIRST in Western Visayas.
The Province of Guimaras organized the first dragon fruit festival slated on September 29-30, 2022 in partnership with Agri-Tourism, Farmers, Owners, Operators Association (GATFOOA).
To be held at the Provincial Capitol Grounds in San Miguel, Jordan, the Guimaras Dragon Fruit Fest will be a fresh experience for the people of Region 6.
The festivity is in line with the celebration of the National Tourism Month and a response to the interest of the people on the fruit and in the opportunities it could offer.
Guimaras Dragon Fruit Festival aims to contribute to the recovery of the province's economy that is still reeling from the effect of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The two-day festivities feature Bike Caravan that will serve as the opening salvo of the celebration and a press conference.
The trade fair will showcase dragon fruit products while a demonstration of dragon fruit cuisine and dragon-fruit based products dubbed as Dragon Fruit Kitchen will feature Kulinarya chef from the Department of Tourism.
"Dragon Fruit classroom" will provide guests visiting the Trade Fair with information on the dragon fruit value chain.
A jobs fair will be conducted on the first day of the festival to provide avenue for employers who are looking for their needed manpower and will offer opportunity for job seekers in the province.
Governor JC Rahman Nava thrust for economic recovery is anchored in agri-fishery, agri-eco tourism development and Dragon Fruit Festival is one of the answers of the Provincial Government to achieve the goal.
The event is expected to generate trade, create jobs, and present investment opportunities.
While it is expected to enhance promotion of Guimaras tourism industry, Dragon Fruit Festival is anticipated to boost revenue at the local level.
By conducting such festival, the Provincial Government of Guimaras and partner organizers aim to increase awareness of the dragon fruit which may increase the income of the local growers.
The celebration would also like to encourage farming and consumption of dragon fruit.
Dragon Fruit Festival is likewise a celebration and thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest of the local farmers.
With Guimaras Dragon Fruit Festival, indeed Guimaras has proven that it is “mangoes and more.” (PR)