CATBALOGAN CITY — With the 21st Manaragat Festival just around the corner, Catbalogan City is abuzz with preparations for its annual extravaganza, set to culminate on August 24 in honor of Señor San Bartolomew.
Mayor Dexter Uy, leading the city’s preparations, anticipates welcoming over 200,000 guests and visitors throughout the month-long festivities.
“This month sees our Balikbayans returning home for their annual vacation, eager to reunite with loved ones and partake in the city’s festive activities,” Mayor Uy emphasized.
Highlighting the significance of the event, Mayor Uy emphasized its role in bringing together Balikbayans and local residents for a joyful reunion and celebration of culture.
Exciting Pre-Fiesta Events
One of the festival’s anticipated highlights is the Catbalogan Battle of the Bands (CBOB) Regional Finals, scheduled to take place on August 4, 2024, at Pier Uno’s “Seaside City.” Bands from across the region will compete for top honors, showcasing their talent with electrifying performances.
The CBOB, organized by the Catbalogan City Tourism, Culture, Arts & Information Office (CTCAIO), promises a thrilling musical showdown and offers the Champion Band the opportunity to win P15,000 cash prize and record their music. Runner ups and non-winners will also receive cash prizes.
Alongside the CBOB, the city will host various cultural presentations, competitions, and the prestigious Search for Mister and Miss Manaragat 2024.
Othet activities were also coducted such as the Kasalang Bayan 2024, Katig Karit Regional Dance Competition, Bikarade, Puppet Show.
The Catbalogan Singing Idol Duo will also be held on August 10, in which the champion will receive. A cash prize of P12,000 and P10,000, P8,000, P5,000 and P3,000 for the First Runner Up, Second Runner Up, Finalists and Non Winners respectively.
These events are coordinated with enthusiasm by Vice Mayor Coefredo “Tekwa” Uy and Councilor Stephany Uy-Tan, highlighting the city’s commitment to showcasing its rich cultural heritage.
Venues and Attractions
City Plaza and Seaside City will serve as the focal points of the festival, offering diverse attractions for attendees. City Plaza will host cultural activities and competitions, while Seaside City will feature the Grand Carnival, showcasing local products, and providing space for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The month-long celebration is not only a cultural spectacle but also a testament to Catbalogan City’s vibrant spirit and community cohesion.
As the preparations reach their peak, residents and visitors alike eagerly anticipate the festivities that honor both tradition and innovation in this captivating city.
The Manaragat Festival, a celebration of culture and religious fervor in Catbalogan City, Samar, culminates on August 24, honoring its patron saint, St. Bartholomew. (Ricky Bautista)
