2024 VIP Tour Visits Northern Mindanao In Historic First
Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines, 29 July 2024 – The 2024 Very Important Pinoy (VIP) Tour delegation continued to explore the rich culture and heritage of the Philippines from 25 to 28 July with a visit to Northern Mindanao, the first in the tour’s history. The tour included stops in Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental, Bukidnon, and Iligan, which provided the delegates with a comprehensive experience of the region’s cultural diversity, natural beauty, and warm hospitality.
Cagayan de Oro and Misamis Oriental
On 25 July, the delegation visited Cagayan de Oro and Misamis Oriental, where they were welcomed with a joint dinner hosted by Misamis Oriental Governor Peter Unabia and Cagayan de Oro Mayor Rolando Uy. The dinner highlighted the Kuyamis Festival which showcased the region’s rich cultural heritage. Consul General Senen T. Mangalile, representing the delegation, expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and hospitality extended by the hosts, stating, “This experience is a testament to the unity and vibrant culture of Northern Mindanao.”
Some participants also visited the Divine Mercy Shrine in El Salvador City, Misamis Oriental. On 26 July, the adventurous among the delegation members enjoyed an exhilarating white-water rafting experience on Cagayan de Oro’s river, complemented by scenic views at Amaya View Park.
Bukidnon
A number of the delegation members explored the Dahilayan Adventure Park and the Indigenous People Eco Park in the municipality of Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, on 26 July. The activities during the first-ever Manolo Fortich Tourist Experience included participation in cultural demonstrations and learning about the local heritage. There were multifunctional displays at the Indigenous People Eco Park that showcased various foods, culture, and crafts under the Higaonon, Talaandig, and Bukidnon tribes. The visit to Alomah’s Farm by some of the participants allowed them to connect with nature and appreciate sustainable farming practices.
In Malaybalay City on 27 July, the delegation was welcomed with a joint lunch hosted by Bukidnon Governor Neil Roque and Malaybalay City Mayor Jay Pabillaran at the Kaamulan Open Theater Park. The event featured a Mini Kaamulan Festival that celebrated the province’s seven tribes: Talaandig, Higaonon, Bukidnon, Umayamnon, Matigsalug, Manobo, and Tigwahanon. During the event, the delegation had the opportunity to learn about and purchase local crafts and products, such as soil paintings, leaf art, coffee, and pineapple jams. Noteworthy artisans included Higaonon mat weaver and Gawad ng Manlilikha ng Bayan awardee Marife Ravidas Ganahon; leaf artist Wilmar Sumuhoy; bark painter Johnny Sangcay Viceda; soil artist Rodelio B. Saway Jr.; and other local talents, all of whom impressed the delegates with their unique and natural skills.
The visit in Malaybalay City also included a tour of the Abbey of the Transfiguration, one of the final masterpieces by National Artist for Architecture Leandro Locsin. The Abbey features a vestment collection designed by Dom Martin Gomez made out of Philippine fabrics and textiles.
Governor Roque, Mayor Pabillaran, and Bukidnon Fourth District Representative Laarni Lavin Roque, warmly welcomed the delegates and expressed their hope that they will return to Bukidnon for an extended stay to experience its finest delicacies, destinations, and hospitality, and to share that Bukidnon is ready to welcome international tourists. Consul General Mangalile supported this sentiment, stating, “There’s more reason to love the Philippines by exploring Northern Mindanao.”
Iligan
In Iligan City on 28 July, the delegation visited the Macaraeg-Macapagal Ancestral House, where they were greeted with a Maranao welcome ritual. The participants then proceeded with a visit to the majestic Tinago and Mimbalot Falls. Pagana Maranao, a cultural experience hosted by Mayor Frederick Siao, offered a deep dive into the rich traditions and cuisine of the Maranao people. Participants observed and learned traditional Maranao dining decorum, enjoyed Maranao heritage cuisine, and were treated to cultural performances by the Integrated Performing Arts Guild (IPAG) and a fashion show by Iligan-based fashion designers that showcased Maranao weaves. The delegation also had the opportunity to interact with locals and have a photo with a tartanilla, a horse-drawn carriage, during the city tour.
The 2024 VIP Tour has showcased the diverse cultural and natural attractions of Northern Mindanao, leaving delegates with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the Philippines’ rich heritage. One participant shared, “The visit to the IP Eco Park was a profound experience. It gave us a real sense of the local culture and traditions.” Another participant remarked, “The Pagana Maranao in Iligan City was a highlight of the tour. They rolled out the red carpet to warmly welcome us.”
The delegation will return to Manila on 29 July and will stay until 30 July before departing for the United States or proceeding with post-tour activities. END
