Tawi-Tawi's 36th anniversary

MANILA, Philippines - Tawi-Tawi celebrates its 36th founding anniversary from Sept. 23 to 27 with festivities that depict not only the culture of the province, but offer sports, tourism and recreational activities.

“The aim of this event is to show the nation that Tawi-Tawi is a safe and productive haven for people to come and visit,” says Gov. Sadikul Sahali. “In fact, we have invited some governors, and Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro to come to Tawi-Tawi to grace the event.”

Dubbed as Kamahardikaan Tawi-Tawi, the festival features colorful buntings and streamers. Various fruit vendors also line up the town’s busy commercial district.

The theme this year is “Yes, Tawi-Tawi Can! Sailing Fast as Philippines’ New Frontier for Tourism.” This is because Tawi Tawi has the best tourist diving spots in the country.

Highlight of the event is the cultural presentation that showcases the colorful ethnic cultures of the Sama, Badjaos, Jama Mapuns and Tausugs. Eleven municipalities are participating in the event. A colorful street parade will also be held.

Mutya ng Tawi-Tawi candidates will go from town to town, planting trees and talking about nature and the environment.

The fluvial parade aims to promote marine sports like the Paglomba-lomba ma Tahik Tawi-Tawi, an aquatic competition which promotes local boat racing as marine sports could be harnessed into tourist attractions.

The Aga-Agal Festival will showcase the recondite seaweeds the province is blessed with.