Tugob Fest Ormoc: A Celebration of Abundance

A Historical Perspective

The previous political administration in Ormoc was dominated by a family that amassed their wealth through sugarcane and pineapple farming. Inspired by Cebu’s Sinulog Festival, they initiated a celebration to honor their agricultural success. Before the introduction of the pineapple-themed festivities, local festivals were often lackluster, featuring simple parades and gatherings with barangay officials.

The Pineapple Festival brought a new level of excitement with street dancing, drum beats reminiscent of Sinulog, and offerings to the Sto. Niño. However, the current administration decided to expand the festival's scope, celebrating not just pineapples and sugarcane but a variety of other local products.

The Meaning of Tugob

"Tugob" translates to "abundant" in the Visayan dialect. The festival aims to highlight eleven key products that are abundant in Ormoc: steam, water, pineapple, sugarcane, cassava, seafood, livestock, coconut, fruits and vegetables, rice, and sand and gravel. Schools in the metro Ormoc area participate in the festival, creatively depicting these products through various artistic performances.

Festival Highlights

Ms. Tugob Queen Pageant

One of the festival's main attractions is the Ms. Tugob Queen Pageant. Contestants represent different crops, vying for the title of Miss Tugob Queen. In a recent event, a student from Western Leyte University, representing sugarcane, won the crown. She also received awards for Best in Festival Outfit, Solo Performer, and Creative Presentation.

Street Dancing

Street dancing is another major highlight, taking place on the main streets each morning. The ultimate dance showdown occurs at the open field of Ormoc Central School, where the best dancers are awarded for their performances.

Additional Activities

The festival also features a variety of other activities, including:

• Gun Sporting Contests: Sponsored by the YMCA.
• Professional Skateboarding: Showcased by local skateboard enthusiasts.
• Soccer Events: Organized by the Ormoc Sports Aficionado groups.
• Yard Show: Presented by the Ormoc Yard Club.
• Aqua and Agriculture Trade Show: Hosted by the Metro Agriculture and Services Offices, featuring landscaping contests and booth exhibits.
• Sky Diving: Demonstrated by the Cebu Parachuters Club at the plaza.

The Future of Tugob Fest

Ormocanons believe that the Tugob Festival, if held annually, has the potential to become a major tourist attraction, comparable to Cebu's Sinulog and Bacolod's Masskara Festival. The festival not only celebrates the city's agricultural wealth but also aims to foster a sense of community and pride among its residents.

Interesting Stats

• Agricultural Output: Ormoc is one of the leading producers of sugarcane and pineapples in the Philippines. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, Leyte, where Ormoc is located, produced over 1.2 million metric tons of sugarcane in 2020.
• Tourism Impact: Festivals like Tugob can significantly boost local tourism. For instance, the Sinulog Festival in Cebu attracts over 1 million visitors annually, contributing millions of pesos to the local economy (source: Cebu Daily News).
• Economic Contribution: Agriculture remains a vital part of Ormoc's economy, contributing significantly to the city's GDP. The Department of Agriculture reports that the agricultural sector in the Philippines contributes around 10% to the national GDP.

Tourists are always welcome to experience the warmth and hospitality of the people of Leyte. Tugob Fest Ormoc is not just a celebration of abundance but a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage and community spirit.

Sources:

• Philippine Statistics Authority
• Cebu Daily News
• Department of Agriculture