Every May, Guimaras celebrates its sweet mangoes and its anniversary as a province with the Manggahan Festival. The first festival was held on 22 May 1993, one year after Guimaras became a regular province on 22 May 1992. Since 2018, 22 May has been a special non-working holiday in the province.
When. The festival now runs for about ten days in mid to late May, with 22 May at its centre. In 2026, the 34th edition ran from 15 to 24 May. Dates and programmes are announced by the provincial government each year, so check before you book.
What to expect. The best-known event is the Mango Eat-All-You-Can, where a small fee (₱100 in recent years, approximate) buys thirty minutes of ripe Guimaras mangoes. Around it are an agri-tourism trade fair, a parade and street dancing, a cultural competition among the five municipalities, food fairs, music nights, sports and pageants. Most of the action is at the Provincial Capitol grounds in San Miguel, Jordan.
The fruit. Guimaras grows the Carabao mango. In 2023, 'Guimaras Mango' became the first registered Geographical Indication in the Philippines, a recognition of the sweetness and care that go into the island's fruit.
Plan ahead. May is peak mango season and a busy time on the boats and in the resorts. Book rooms early, cross in the morning, and carry water and a hat: May is one of the hottest months of the year.
Maayong aga, and enjoy the mangoes.