The Province of Quirino recently showcased its tourism offerings at the 25th Panagdadapun Festival, one of Cagayan Valley’s premier cultural events. Celebrating the festival’s silver edition, Quirino emphasized its rich heritage and diverse attractions through the theme “Quirino: Mahusay, Matatag at Nagkakaisa sa Bagong Pilipinas.”
Introduced in 1999, Panagdadapun means “gathering” or “convergence” and coincides with the provincial founding anniversary on Sept. 10. After two years of virtual celebrations during the COVID-19 pandemic, the festival returned in person, introducing the “Basket of Happiness” rebranding to highlight its tourist-ready spots.
Governor Dakila Carlo Cua noted that the weeklong festivities reaffirmed Quirino’s growing status in the tourism sector, drawing attention to must-see locations like the 100-foot Ganano Falls in Diffun and the Aglipay Caves and Campsite. The festival also featured the return of the Quirino Motorismo, a significant motorcycle sports tourism event that achieved a “zero casualty” record, enhancing road safety awareness.
Key activities included an Arts and Crafts Exhibit Fair and the One Town One Product (OTOP) Agro-Industrial and Tourism Fair, showcasing local crafts, cuisine, and cultural heritage. Sports enthusiasts enjoyed events such as the Arnis Invitational Tournament and the Quirino Invitational Wakeboarding Competition, which attracted top athletes to the world-class Quirino Watersports Complex.
The celebration culminated on Sept. 10 with the Panagdadapun Street Dancing Competition, where municipalities displayed their unique cultural identities. The provincial capitol complex, set within a 110-hectare government property, served as the vibrant backdrop for this cultural showcase.
Additionally, the festival introduced innovative local products, including mango wine and an ube-licious culinary competition, highlighting Quirino’s agricultural strengths.
Governor Cua expressed optimism for the future, stating, “With more and diverse events in its silver edition, we look forward to more impactful festivities in the next 25 years.”
