The 35th Ibalong Festival is providing opportunities for tourism-related businesses and workers amid challenges facing the industry, an official of the Department of Tourism (DOT) – Bicol said.

In an interview after the street parade on Friday evening, DOT-Bicol Regional Director Herbie Aguas thanked the Legazpi City government for pushing through with the festival.

“Ibalong is a celebration of life, our culture. I’m very proud to say thank you,” he said.

Aguas said the tourism industry has also been affected by rising fuel prices and other challenges, including the cancellation of some festivals.

Thus, he said, restaurants, costume makers, tricycle drivers, bus drivers, and other tourism-related workers benefit when festivals push through and attract visitors.

Aguas said festivals such as the Ibalong help sustain tourism activities and provide opportunities for communities and businesses that rely on visitors.

For Legazpi City Mayor Hisham Ismail, the festival is also an opportunity to support local artists, entrepreneurs, tourism workers, and businesses while showcasing the city’s history, culture, food, creativity, and hospitality.

He said the celebration allows residents and visitors to experience the city through various activities, including the parade, performances, exhibits, competitions and concerts.

Meanwhile, Education Secretary Sonny Angara highlighted the festival’s role in preserving Legazpi’s cultural identity and heritage.

“I’m happy with your festival because you are bringing history to life,” Angara said, noting that the celebration forms part of the city’s cultural identity and heritage.

He said tourists tend to seek experiences unique to a particular destination rather than attractions that can also be found elsewhere.

“What they will look for is what is unique here in one place. And that includes the Ibalong Festival,” he said.

He cited the importance of preserving local traditions through education and the Department of Education’s efforts to localize the curriculum.

The Ibalong Festival is based on the epic story of legendary heroes Baltog, Handyong, and Bantong, whose stories form part of Bicol’s cultural heritage. (PNA)