By Helen Castaño | 02:04 PM March 17, 2023
The city government of Tagbilaran on Thursday launched the “Saulog Tagbilaran” Festival after a three-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The month-long celebration was formally opened on Thursday, March 16, 2023, with the 458th commemoration of the Blood Compact in Barangay Bool.
“And now we are back to face- to- face activities, this is our avenue to promote the tourism industry in Bohol and our beloved city of Tagbilaran,” said Mayor Jane Yap.
This year’s festivities would include street dancing, dragon boat racing, food fairs, and other activities in a buildup to the religious feast of Saint Joseph on May 1.
She said data from the Tagbilaran’s tourism office estimated that 80% of tourist activities in the city were back to normal and that arrivals were still rising.
Yap led the wreath laying and floral dedication for the 458th Blood Compact Anniversary, along with Gov. Aris Aumentado represented by provincial administrator Aster Caberte, Vice Gov. Victor Balite represented by his son DJ Balite, Tagbilaran Bishop Alberto Uy, Rep. Edgar Chatto, and Department of Tourism Sec. Christina Frasco represented by Assistant Secretary Christopher Morales.
It was followed by a performance from Lungsoranon Performing Arts Ensemble (LUPAE) which reenacted the Blood Compact event between Rajah Sikatuna and Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and danced to the tune of Saulog jingle.
The candidates of Mutya sa Tagbilaran were also presented.
