By I. Inojales | 01:05 PM April 24, 2026
TAGBILARAN CITY — The provincial government of Bohol is set to streamline activities for the 2026 Sandugo Festival while maintaining its cultural core and ensuring continued economic opportunities for communities.
The plan was discussed during the Sandugo Initiation Meeting on April 23, 2026 at the Provincial Capitol Ceremonial Hall, where key offices aligned preparations for the province’s flagship celebration.
Officials led by Gov. Erico Aristotle Aumentado emphasized the need to scale down festivities in response to environmental and economic considerations, particularly the anticipated impacts of El Niño and ongoing energy conservation efforts in the province.
Despite the adjustments, the provincial government stressed that the festival will continue to serve as a platform for cultural expression, tourism promotion, and local economic activity, especially within the Bohol Island Geopark.
The Sandugo Festival has grown in scope over recent years through a stream-based structure designed to widen participation. From six streams in 2023, it expanded to eight in 2024 and was fully implemented in 2025.
These streams include Pasiuna, Tabo, Bibo, Tigi, Tapok, Baras, Atiman and Bantawan.
For 2026, participating provincial offices presented adjustments aimed at improving coordination and efficiency while retaining the festival’s core events.
The Center for Culture and Arts Development will manage Pasiuna, Bibo and Tabo.
The Provincial Youth Development Office will lead Tigi, while the Bohol Provincial Tourism Office will oversee Baras. The Management and Operations Unit will handle Atiman.
Other offices, including Bohol Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office (Bedipo), the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist, and the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian are also expected to contribute to the implementation of various festival activities.
Provincial officials said the consolidation of programs reflects a more practical approach to organizing large-scale events under current conditions, ensuring that resources are used efficiently while maintaining public participation.
