Buguey Celebrates Coastal Heritage and Culinary Pride at 5th Malaga, Guraman, and Tirem Festival 2026
The Municipality of Buguey successfully celebrated the 5th Malaga, Guraman, and Tirem Festival 2026, showcasing its rich coastal heritage, culinary traditions, and resilient community spirit despite the challenges brought by the recent typhoon.
More than a celebration, the festival highlighted Buguey’s identity as a rising culinary and coastal tourism destination, anchored on its abundant fisheries resources and the municipality’s pride in its local delicacies—Malaga (Rabbitfish), Guraman (Sea Grapes), and Tirem (Oysters).
The festivities opened with the Oplan SSSIRRENA (Single Spat Oyster, Siganid and Seaweed Intensification through Research Regulation Extension services and Nurturing Assistance for the fisherfolk) Press Conference, setting the stage for a series of activities that showcased local culture, culinary creativity, and community participation. The Malaga Festival Dance Competition captivated audiences as students from various schools presented vibrant performances inspired by Buguey’s fishing traditions and deep connection to the sea.
The Kusina ni CERRI Cookfest further highlighted the municipality’s culinary identity, with local cooks showcasing innovative dishes featuring Buguey’s prized marine products. The competition demonstrated the versatility of Malaga, Guraman, and Tirem as key ingredients that represent the town’s thriving fisheries industry and local food heritage.
A significant milestone of the celebration was the inauguration of the Agri-Fishery Multi-Purpose Building, the turnover of the Kadiwa Project, and the unveiling of the Malaga and Guraman Tower, reinforcing Buguey’s commitment to fisheries development, food security, and sustainable livelihood opportunities for its coastal communities.
The festival culminated with the ceremonial grilling and presentation of 2,000 kilograms of Malaga (Rabbitfish), prepared into various local dishes and shared during the much-anticipated Malaga, Guraman, and Tirem Grand Salu-Salo (Pinggang Pinoy). The gathering symbolized Buguey’s abundant marine resources, hospitality, and strong community spirit.
Outstanding participants were also recognized during the Presentation of Awards, honoring winners of the Malaga Festival Dance Competition, Best Cooked Malaga, Best Cooked Guraman Recipe, Best Cooked Tirem Recipe, Best Dressed Booth, and other festival competitions that celebrated the creativity and talent of Buguey’s communities.
The successful celebration reflects Buguey’s continuing efforts to transform its fisheries resources, culinary traditions, and coastal heritage into meaningful tourism experiences that promote local livelihoods and preserve its cultural identity.
With its four major festivals celebrated throughout the year, Buguey continues to strengthen its position as a destination where visitors can experience authentic culture, vibrant traditions, and the flavors of its coastal communities in every season.