By Nimfa Estrellado Tagkawayan Mayor Carlo Eleazar led the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Kaway Festival on February 1, 2024, alongside oth...
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| Tagkawayan Mayor Carlo Eleazar led the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Kaway Festival on February 1, 2024, alongside other officials, farmers, and fisherfolks. The festival's opening day celebrated "Farmers and Fishermen Day" and also marked the inauguration of the "First Kaway Cocolympics." (Photo from Mayor Carlo Eleazar) |
TAGKAWAYAN, Quezon - The vibrant 10th Kaway Festival of Tagkawayan, Quezon, kicked off on February 1st with the dazzling Arko Contest. Barangays San Francisco, Aliji, Sta. Cecilia, Magsaysay, Poblacion, Rizal, and the Tourism Hospitality Association of Tagkawayan showcased their artistic talents, crafting impressive arks adorned with festive colors and local materials. These structures, symbolizing unity and camaraderie, marked the festival's decade-long journey and highlighted Tagkawayan's rich cultural heritage.
This year's Kaway Festival carries a message of special importance: supporting the hardworking farmers and fisherfolks who are the backbone of Tagkawayan's community. While an official theme hasn't been announced, the focus is clear: celebrate the town's agricultural and fishing heritage, promote inclusivity, and recognize the contributions of these essential groups.
Over 1,400 farmers and fisherfolks gathered on opening day, marking "Farmers and Fishermen Day" and the inauguration of the "First Kaway Cocolympics." Mayor Carlo Eleazar expressed his sincere gratitude to the provincial government and Governor Angelina "Helen" Tan for their unwavering support. He emphasized the crucial role of their collaboration in providing farmers and fisherfolks with the necessary equipment to sustain their livelihoods.
Mayor Eleazar also highlighted the successful implementation of hatchery projects aimed at supporting and sustaining the local fishing industry. These projects provide valuable training and resources to fishermen, empowering them to improve their techniques and increase their productivity. He underscored the importance of sustainable fishing practices and ensuring a stable food supply, drawing lessons from the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Investing in the local fishing industry is crucial for Tagkawayan's food security, the mayor believes. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the availability of fresh seafood for the community and expressed his commitment to continue working closely with the provincial government to further develop and expand these initiatives.
Mayor Carlo warmly welcomes everyone to join the 10th Kaway Festival. The Kaway Festival continues until February 11th, culminating in the celebration of Tagkawayan's patron saint, Our Lady of Lourdes. Marking a decade of preserving Tagkawayan's unique traditions and fostering community spirit, this year's Kaway Festival holds special significance. While a specific theme hasn't been announced for 2024, the focus remains on celebrating the town's heritage and promoting inclusivity.
Other events scheduled throughout the festival include an arts fair, an LGBTQ costume parade, an LGBTQ fashion show, a mountain bike challenge, a culinary festival, street dancing, a foam party, and a lot more. These events provide opportunities for residents and visitors alike to engage with the community, learn about its history, and forge connections with one another. The Kaway Festival truly embodies the spirit of unity and pride that defines Tagkawayan, making it a must-attend event for anyone seeking an authentic cultural experience.
The Municipal Tourism Office of Tagkawayan, under the leadership of Mayor Eleazar and Anna Louella Villanueva, was recently recognized for its outstanding contributions to the tourism sector at the CALABARZON Tourism Excellence Appreciation 2023. The award ceremony, held at the Twin Lakes Hotel in Laurel, Batangas, highlighted the efforts of individuals, private entities, and local governments in promoting tourism within the region.
The recognition stems from Tagkawayan's unique tourism programs and initiatives implemented throughout the year. Regional Director Marites Castro of the Department of Tourism-CALABARZON personally visited the town in September 2023, leading a site inspection of local tourist attractions.
This achievement adds to the excitement surrounding the celebration of the 10th Kaway Festival. The award serves as a testament to the town's commitment to sustainable tourism practices and its dedication to providing memorable experiences for visitors.
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