Lagonoy Samhod Festival 2023: Travel to Bicol
The local government of Lagonoy organizes the Samhod Festival every month of April. It is a weeklong celebration comprised of activities that will surely give you a great deal of entertainment. This annual occasion in town is now in its 14th year and is well known to neighboring municipalities in the district of Partido. Samhod Festival is also a celebration of Lagonoy Town Fiesta.
Apart from preserving the tradition, this festivity was established to boost the trade of Samhod in the municipality and to cherish Lagonoy as the producer of the best quality Soft Broom in the country.
LAGONOY, Camarines Sur — Lagonoy’s Samhod Festival, which is now in its 14th year, continues to be a big boost in the achievement of the town’s agenda to further strengthen its tourism industry and economic development thrusts.
LAGONOY, Camarines Sur — Lagonoy’s Samhod Festival is back for its 14th year. This vibrant event is a key player in boosting the town’s tourism and economic goals.
The festival first began on April 25, 2008, inspired by the creative vision of former Mayor Delfin Pilapil, Jr. Now, his son, Mayor Delfin (JB) Pilapil III, carries on the tradition. This year’s celebration will take place from April 25 to May 1.
Despite setbacks during the 2020 and 2021 pandemic years, the local government managed to create exciting initiatives. Through the Samhod Festival, they promoted walis tambo, or soft brooms, and successfully expanded their market, both locally and abroad. This has turned it into a profitable venture for residents and a revenue boost for the local government.
Walis Tambo is not just a broom; it’s a symbol of Lagonoy. Registered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) as part of the One Town, One Product (OTOP) program, it’s crafted from abundant tiger grass, known locally as “sugbo.”
The OTOP initiative supports the production, marketing, and promotion of unique local goods using indigenous materials and skills. City and municipal leaders work together to spotlight products that hold a competitive edge.
A striking giant soft broom stands proudly in the municipal plaza, a testament to the town’s pride. Ariel Nitullano, Lagonoy’s public information officer, shares that the local government is committed to supporting tiger grass farmers with financial assistance to sustain their crops.
Thanks to the Samhod Festival, walis tambo has gained steady fame and demand in various markets. Local entrepreneurs are now forming valuable connections through DTI-assisted trade fairs, leading to exciting export opportunities.
Mayor Pilapil promises a colorful celebration for everyone this year. The festival will feature lively activities, including the MAPEH/CAT Street Parade Competition, Samhod Car Show, Airsoft Shooting Contest, and an art exhibit by internationally acclaimed artist Pancho Piano from Barangay Mangogon.
Festival highlights include a walis tambo-making contest, kite-flying competition, Feria de Nuevos Productos Trade Fair, Salampati Race, and the Search for Binibining Samhod 2023, joined by more fun activities and contests.
Mark your calendars! The opening night on April 25 will dazzle with a variety show and cultural presentation featuring celebrity guest Ms. Ara Mina. A celebrated actress and entrepreneur, she is known as the “Millennium Goddess” and has received various prestigious awards.
On the eve of the fiesta, April 30, the energy will spike with a celebrity street concert. Young crowds will gather to see rapper Humprey Lopranco and heartthrob Gerald Anderson. The popular band ‘Imago’ will deliver a musical experience that won’t be forgotten. Get ready for a week filled with joy and celebration!