GUIMARAS — The Provincial Government of Guimaras formally launched a rebranded identity for the Manggahan Festival 2026, signaling a strategic shift toward positioning the island as a premier agri-ecotourism destination during the “Sweetest Kickoff” held April 14 at the Pitstop Hotel in Alaguisoc, Jordan.
The event, highlighted by the unveiling of a new festival logo and the official calendar of activities, marked what officials described as the province’s most ambitious celebration to date.
Festivities opened with a vibrant performance by Hubon Kawayan, setting the tone for an afternoon that underscored both heritage and transformation. The kickoff also served as a platform to introduce Guimaras’ evolving identity—from being widely known as the country’s “Mango Capital” to a broader agri-ecotourism hub.
At the center of the rebranding is the theme “Mangoes and More,” which aims to elevate the Manggahan Festival into a globally competitive agri-festival.
The newly unveiled logo incorporates symbolic design elements reflecting the province’s vision. A stylized crown composed of a leaf and pedicel represents agricultural vitality, while an intricate double “M” reinforces the expanded branding. The design also features an interlocked form highlighting five colors that represent Guimaras’ municipalities: Jordan, Buenavista, Nueva Valencia, Sibunag, and San Lorenzo—emphasizing a unified “One Island” identity.
Cultural elements were likewise embedded in the typography, inspired by traditional banig and patadyong weaving, symbolizing the integration of the island’s agri-ecotourism assets.
In her keynote address, Gov. Ma. Lucille L. Nava underscored that the rebranding goes beyond aesthetics and reflects a long-term vision for the province.
“The Manggahan Festival has rebranded: the same vision but with a renewed outlook—not just visual, but visionary,” Nava said. “This represents a promise that while people come to visit our islands for the sweetest mangoes, they will stay to experience more that Guimaras has to offer.”
She added that the province is transitioning “from tradition to transformation” by highlighting not only its agricultural bounty but also its coastal resources and rich culture.
Following the unveiling, the Pasundayag Performance Arts group staged a cultural presentation interpreting the “Mangoes and More” concept through dance and storytelling.
The Manggahan Festival 2026 is expected to draw both local and international visitors, offering a wide range of cultural, agricultural, and eco-tourism activities across the island’s five municipalities.
As the province moves forward with its renewed branding, Nava expressed optimism for Guimaras’ future, describing it as a journey “padulong sa mas matam-is nga palaabuton” or toward a sweeter future./PN
