Festivals in our country have been part of the lives and tradition of many Filipinos. These are celebrations that mirrored and showcase one’s culture and heritage. Through the years, thousands of festivals are held in different parts of the Philippines each year. One particular festival in the province of Catanduanes is frequented of many visitors coming from nearby towns and gradually from all over the Philippines--the Catandungan Festival, one of the most exciting and colorful festivals in the country.
As featured by Carmel Bonifacio-Garcia in the weblog Experience Catanduanes, the Catandungan Festival is a celebration of the Catandunganons, locals of Catanduanes, to bring back the memory of their past with appreciation. The main goal of the celebration is for the locals to make them aware of their history and culture as a people.
Another goal of the festival is to promote the tourism potential of the province and showcase its natural, historic, cultural, educational, scenic and recreational resources. Tourists who witness the celebration enjoy the festival in many ways. There are activities spearheaded by the city government which are participated in by the locals. These include a variety of special events, beauty pageants, sports, exhibitions, tournaments, and other recreation. Some of the events are held in Virac Heroes Memorial Fountain to bring back life to the memorial as the center of the Catandungan Festival.
One event that is much awaited is the Surfing Competition held at the majestic waves of Puraran Beach. The Surfing Competition with side events like frisbee, wall climbing and the likes take centerfold at Puraran Beach amidst the backdrop of scintillating coves and rolling hills.
The colorful festival of Catandungan mirror how rich the province of Catanduanes is. It represents how colorful the province and banners the island’s soul – the unyielding spirit of a true Catandunganon - just like the storms that test the strength and perseverance.
The Catandungan is a festival to experience. Whichever way you travel, you’ll reach Catanduanes and surely will be welcomed by hospitable people.
How to get there
By Air: Catanduanes is served by Asian Spirit. This airline flies direct from Manila to and from Virac daily.
By Land: Air conditioned buses (Philtranco, ESL and Tawtrasco) travel direct from Manila to Virac daily. Other air-conditioned buses can take you from Manila to the Port of Tabaco where a ferry boat can take you across to Virac, Catanduanes.
By Sea: For the more adventurous tourist and sightseeing travelers, Virac is best reached by sea. Two shipping lines - San Pablo Shipping Lines and Star Ferry - set sail from the Port of Tabaco to Virac/San Andres daily.
Getting Around
Tricycle is the primary mode of transport within the capital town of Virac. Jeepneys and buses ply from Virac to the different municipalities daily on schedule time. For the more daring and adventurous, the entire province could be reached by motorcycle.