After four years of absence due to the pandemic and eruption threats of Mayon Volcano, the local government of Camalig in Albay province is gearing up for the comeback of its Pinangat festival.

In a phone interview on Saturday, Mayor Carlos Irwin Baldo Jr. said the town is bringing back the festival next month, highlighting the culture and delicacies of Camalig, particularly pinangat, a savory signature specialty in Bicol made from taro leaves, chili, and meat stewed in coconut milk, and wrapped in coconut leaves.

The festival which will run from June 10 to 24 is expected to boost local tourism and enhance the economy. About 20,000 visitors are expected.

“We want the tourists to see that Camalig has so much to offer. Aside from our famous tourist destinations with Mayon Volcano as a perfect view, we have our famous delicacies like the internationally known pinangat and pili nuts,” Baldo said.

Tourists could also look forward to the Pinangat Amazing Race, a pinangat-making competition for the youth.

“This is aimed at preserving the culture and promoting the dish among younger generations,” he said.

The municipal government would also showcase the longest pinangat, measuring up to a kilometer and combines both spicy and regular flavors.

Stores that will participate in the bazaar will be given seed money to showcase their designs and artworks that reflect the beauty of Camalig.

The Office of the Mayor’s tourism and cultural division allocated PHP3.5 million for the festival.

To widen the reach of the traditional dish, Baldo said his office is collaborating with national government agencies to help them market pinangat globally. (PNA)