As the province gears up for the much-anticipated Grand Ammungan Festival 2025 in May, Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito has announced a series of exciting enhancements aimed at elevating the festival experience and fostering greater community involvement across Nueva Vizcaya’s 15 municipalities.
During the first executive committee meeting held yesterday,January 8, Governor Gambito outlined a vision for a more engaging and streamlined festival. A key highlight is the increase in prizes for municipal activities, designed to stimulate local participation and celebrate the diverse talents within the province.
To ensure a more dynamic program, the festival’s schedule will be condensed, featuring fewer speakers to maintain audience interest and energy. This streamlined approach promises to enhance the festival’s appeal and accessibility for attendees.
In a bid to strengthen collaboration and representation, clear invitations will be dispatched to all provincial elected officials, including the office of the congressman. This initiative underscores the festival’s inclusive spirit and aims to foster a sense of unity and shared celebration.
Three major activities will continue to be the centerpiece of this year’s Grand Ammungan Festival: the Nueva Vizcaya Travel and Tourism Expo, the Street Dancing Competition, and the Search for Saniata ti Nueva Vizcaya. These events highlight the province’s vibrant culture and community spirit.
In a significant addition, this year will see the return of IP Day, or Indigenous Peoples Day, providing an opportunity for indigenous communities to participate and unite in celebrating the province’s founding anniversary.
A significant development for the cultural ambassador of the province, the Saniata ti Nueva Vizcaya, is the introduction of a monthly allowance throughout her reign. This support comes with specific guidelines: the Saniata will sign an agreement with the provincial government, prohibiting her from endorsing private companies or engaging in commercial promotions. Her role will also include active participation in provincial activities and promoting Nueva Vizcaya, particularly in tourism.
These directives have been entrusted to Ms. Marichelle O. Costales, the appointed Director General for the 2025 Grand Ammungan Festival and the provincial tourism officer. Costales expressed her gratitude for the trust and confidence Governor Gambito has placed in her to lead the 186th founding anniversary of the province.
The Grand Ammungan Festival is a key event that highlights Nueva Vizcaya’s rich culture and community spirit. With these new improvements, the 2025 festival promises to be an unforgettable experience, attracting visitors and boosting local pride.#
