ILAGAN CITY, Isabela — Vice Governor Francis Faustino “Kiko” Dy led the opening of the Bambanti Festival 2026, a weeklong celebration honoring Isabela’s farmers and highlighting the province’s agricultural heritage.
The festival opened over the weekend with a unity walk and a Thanksgiving Mass at the Cathedral of St. Michael the Archangel in Gamu, under the theme “Innovations through Tourism: Bagong Tuklas sa Bagong Bukas.”
Dy, who also serves as Bambanti Festival director general, said the annual event is a tribute to the province’s hardworking farmers and a thanksgiving for Isabela’s continued blessings. He invited Isabelenos to take part in the festivities scheduled from January 18 to 24.
He also acknowledged the support of national agencies, including the Department of Tourism, represented by Troy Alexander Miano, and the Department of Trade and Industry, represented by Ma. Sofia Narag, as well as local officials from Isabela’s 34 municipalities and three cities and members of the festival committees.
Board Member Clifford Raspado, who heads the ecotourism booths committee, said the bambanti, or scarecrow, symbolizes the dedication of Isabeleno farmers to the province’s economy.
Board Member Ed Christian S. Go added that the festival reflects Isabela’s rich agricultural heritage and the resilience of its people.
The opening featured ecotourism exhibits, local products, and giant scarecrows displayed at Bambanti Village, showcasing the province’s vibrant farming culture.
