CamNorte gears up for 21st Bantayog Festival

By Ryan Mostar

CAMARINES NORTE --- The province is once again brimming with excitement as it celebrates the 21st Bantayog Festival, a vibrant month-long showcase of Camarines Norte’s rich cultural heritage, historical pride, and economic progress. This year’s festivities promise a bigger, bolder, and more inclusive celebration with new attractions and an even wider array of events.

According to Jelaine A. Abante, Tourism Officer of LGU Talisay, the 21st Bantayog Festival highlights not only the province’s traditions and artistic flair but also its growing potential as a tourism and investment destination.

“This year’s Bantayog Festival is a tribute to the enduring spirit of CamNorteños. It’s a time where we celebrate our shared history and culture through street dances, cultural performances, the Agri-Tourism Trade Fair, and new sporting and artistic events that truly reflect who we are,” Abante shared.

Among the most anticipated additions to this year’s festival are the National Surfing Competition, the Bantayog Talisay Triathlon, and CINECamNorte, a film tourism initiative that aims to showcase the province as a budding hub for local cinema and storytelling.

“We’re excited to introduce new events that don’t just entertain but also promote our natural beauty and local talents. The Bantayog Talisay Triathlon, for example, is proudly hosted by LGU Talisay in partnership with the Provincial Tourism Office. It’s our way of contributing to the festival’s dynamic lineup,” Abante said.

The Bantayog Festival plays a crucial role in uniting the province’s twelve municipalities. Abante emphasized its significance not only as a cultural and historical commemoration but also as a catalyst for economic growth.

“It uplifts our small and medium enterprises by giving them a platform during the Agri-Tourism Trade Fair. We see a surge in tourist arrivals, which benefits hotels, restaurants, resorts, and other local businesses,” she explained.

From its humble beginnings as a week-long event, the Bantayog Festival has evolved into a full month of immersive experiences, drawing visitors from around the country and abroad. Abante credits the collaborative efforts of LGUs and the provincial government for the festival’s continued success and expansion.

“It’s inspiring to see all the LGUs participating actively—whether in the street dance competitions, trade fairs, culinary showcases like the Bantayog Master Chef, or beauty pageants like Bb. CamNorte. It’s this unity that makes the festival truly special,” she added.

As the Bantayog Festival continues to grow, it remains a cornerstone in the province’s tourism and economic agenda. With every year, it not only preserves and celebrates Camarines Norte’s heritage but also paves the way for future opportunities.

“The festival is more than just a celebration. It opens doors—for our people, our businesses, and our province. It’s a proud moment for every CamNorteño,” Abante concluded.

The 21st Bantayog Festival runs throughout the month, with various events scheduled across Camarines Norte’s municipalities. Residents and visitors alike are invited to take part in the festivities and witness the best of what the province has to offer.