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TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol — This city bursts into life once again with the launching of the 2025 Saulog Festival, a monthlong celebration honoring its faith, heritage and progress.
Dedicated to Saint Joseph the Worker, this year's festival officially opened on March 16 at Tagbilaran Friendship Park in Barangay Bool, coinciding with the 460th anniversary of the historic blood compact between Spanish explorer Miguel López de Legazpi and Bohol chieftain Datu Sikatuna.
The festivities began with a Thanksgiving Mass at the Cathedral of St. Joseph, followed by a wreath-laying and floral dedication at Tagbilaran Friendship Park.
Mayor Jane Yap led the tribute and was joined by Bohol Gov. Erico Aristotle Aumentado, Vice Gov. Tita Baja, Vice Mayor Adam Relson Jala, and Barangay Bool Captain Jose Floro Ringca.
The Sandugo of 1565, regarded as the first recorded treaty between Filipinos and Spaniards, symbolized peace and cooperation.
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Yap emphasized its enduring significance, calling it a foundation of unity that continues to inspire Tagbilaran's progress.
Jala, meanwhile, highlighted the importance of preserving cultural traditions and how it strengthens community ties.
Guest speaker Mikhaela Louise Romero, nominee of the 1Pacman Party-list, underscored the role of cultural appreciation in maintaining historical identity while embracing development.
The festival launch also introduced the Mutya sa Tagbilaran 2025 candidates.
Performances by the Vanguardians Dance Company and the Lungsoranon Performing Arts Ensemble showcased a fusion of traditional and contemporary dance, reflecting the city's artistic heritage.
Yap described Saulog as a celebration of faith, unity and resilience, emphasizing that while traditions shape Tagbilaran's identity, progress and inclusivity remain central to its growth.
This year's theme, "Saulog Tagbilaran: One with the World," reflects the city's efforts to share its cultural heritage beyond local borders.
The mayor also noted initiatives to welcome balikbayan, allowing overseas Filipino workers to reconnect with their roots and take part in the celebrations.
The festival calendar features a variety of events catering to different interests.
On March 22, students will compete in the Saulog Tagbilaran Interschool Quiz Bee, followed by the sportsfest on March 23 to promote youth engagement in athletics.
April highlights include Kumbira sa Tagbilaran on April 21, a culinary showcase at City Central Market, and the Mutya sa Tagbilaran Coronation Night on April 23.
The Saulog Festival King and Queen competition follows on April 25.
One of the festival's most anticipated events, the Saulog Street Dancing Competition and Parade, will take place on April 27, bringing the city's streets to life with elaborate costumes and rhythmic performances.
The next day, Himog Huni, an original songwriting contest, will spotlight local musical talent at Island City Mall.
On April 29, the St. Joseph the Worker Fluvial Parade will honor the city's patron saint with a grand procession along Tagbilaran's waters.
The festivities extend into May, culminating in DuEkSam Night on May 1 and the Maoy sa Mayo Saulog Concert on May 4, featuring musical performances and community gatherings.
Meanwhile, the Saulog Tagbilaran Bazaar and Nightly Entertainment, running from April 11 to May 3 at the City Hall Grounds, will offer a vibrant mix of local products, food stalls and live performances.
Beyond celebrating its history, Tagbilaran is also embracing digital transformation.
During the festival launch, Yap presented a video showcasing the city's progress in technology and innovation.
She acknowledged the Department of Information and Communications Technology and the Business Process Association of the Philippines for recognizing Tagbilaran as one of the 25 Digital Cities for 2025.
Yap said that while the city remains deeply connected to its traditions, it also fosters business and investment opportunities to drive sustainable growth.
