As early as the first day of this month, the provincial and municipal governments of this island province, including tourism officials, start preparing for their big event - the 2010 "Buahanan Festival." The whole officialdom spearheaded by Camiguin Gov. Jurdin Romualdo had lined up more activities in preparation of the big affair. It was observed that boats leaving the island were already filled with the sweet and luscious lanzones fruit which the locals fondly calls "buahan." "We are making this big affair more fruitful and meaningful," said Romualdo. Being acclaimed to be the sweetest "buahan" or lanzones in Asia, the island's name not only spells wondrous views, cool waters, and exciting tourist spots but likewise rhymes with its own native fruit, lanzones.
From October 18 to 23, there will be a double treat for visitors as the island celebrates its "31st Lanzones Festival." It will be a festive mode for the rest of the week, setting up well designed street poles, colorful banderitas (trimmings), and carriages decorated with lanzones fruits and leaves as a way of thanksgiving not only for the rich harvest but for the blessings that the townsfolk enjoy throughout the year. Early next week, each town will alternately hold a street dancing competition called "Kalanrakas," a vibrant display of dances in lanzones-inspired costumes. The festival's opening is set on October 18 to be highlighted by a ribbon-cutting ceremony of the festival trade fair dubbed "UGMAD 2010." "UGMAD" showcases the island's best products from the agricultural sector, arts and crafts, fashion accessories, food, furniture, gifts and house wares, organic and natural products. The center of celebration will be at the Camiguin Tourism Center here where various presentations would be showcased from food, local skills, technical sessions, indigenous games and dances.
