GUIMARAS—The provincial government and local dragon fruit growers opened the fourth Dragon Fruit Festival on Thursday, aiming to support farmers, strengthen tourism, and offer a vibrant alternative during the province’s mango off-season.
Provincial Economic and Development Officer Francis Gentoral, who also serves as Tourism Officer, said the festival has drawn nearly 15,000 visitors in its first three years, generating about P22 million in tourism receipts.
“This festival provides not only additional income for farmers but also opportunities to explore the value-adding potential of dragon fruit—not just for health, but also for arts and innovation,” Gentoral told reporters.
With this year’s theme, “Where Flavor Meets Arts,” organizers are highlighting the creative uses of dragon fruit.
Gov. Ma. Lucille Nava said the event aims to inspire Guimarasnon youth to see the fruit as more than food.
“We want to instill creativity by showing how our local produce can become part of art and culture. This encourages innovation among our people while promoting naturally grown products,” Nava said.
The four-day celebration kicked off with a weekend market at the provincial capitol, where hundreds of kilos of dragon fruit are on sale.
Other activities include pick-and-pay experiences at NJST and Paquito Farms, offering fruits at P150 per kilo with a P50 entrance fee for three hours.
Guimaras currently has 22.44 hectares devoted to dragon fruit farming with over 21,000 posts, producing an average of 8.875 tons annually, according to the Provincial Office for Agricultural Services.
This year, organizers are targeting at least a 25 percent increase in tourist arrivals and revenue compared to previous editions.
