Department of Tourism, Region 2, Joins 2nd Crab Festival in Buguey, Cagayan
The Department of Tourism, Region 2 (DOT Region2), proudly joined the vibrant festivities at the 2nd Crab Festival, hosted by the Municipality of Buguey in the heart of Cagayan, which took place on October 26-27, 2023. This annual celebration has become a symbol of the rich cultural heritage and ecological significance of the region.
The Crab Festival, now in its second year, showcased the unique and colorful traditions of Buguey, Cagayan. Among the highlights of this remarkable event were the mesmerizing “Crab Dance” performances, an enchanting display that pays homage to the tireless efforts of the local fisherfolk who depend on the bountiful crab harvest.
The pinnacle of the festival was the unveiling of the impressive Crab Monument, a monument that stands as a symbol of Buguey’s commitment to the preservation and sustainable management of the crab population. It serves as a constant reminder of the importance of nurturing the delicate balance of nature and supporting local industries.
One of the festival’s most anticipated moments was the indulgent “Crabtastic Lunch” provided by the Local Government Unit of Buguey (LGU-Buguey), who generously served a metric ton of succulent mangrove crabs. This not only delighted the taste buds of attendees but also emphasized the integral role crabs play in the culinary heritage of the region.
The Crab Festival is an annual tradition celebrated every October in alignment with the time when fisherfolks witness the abundance of crab catches. Mayor Licerio M. Antiporda III of Buguey underscored the importance of protecting this species for the sake of sustainability, making it a call to action for all attendees. It is through this commitment to preservation that LGU-Buguey has been able to garner support from various line agencies to bolster their crab industry.
Furthermore, the LGU of Buguey has high expectations for yet another return on investment (ROI), this time from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), to fund the establishment of a state-of-the-art cold chain facility. This facility will enhance the quality and accessibility of crab products, contributing to the overall development of the local industry.
Regional Director Troy Alexander Miano of DOT-Region 2 made a commitment to provide technical assistance to LGU Buguey, reinforcing the department’s dedication to supporting the municipality. Director Miano also pledged to develop additional tourism circuits that include LGU Buguey in the regional tourism network, further
enhancing the area’s tourism potential and contributing to regional economic growth.#