Excitement builds as preparations for the 9th Abaca Festival kick off, with the Catanduanes Provincial Government convening at the Sanggunian Panlalawigan Session Hall to map out plans for this year’s celebration, on  April 14.

The Abaca Festival, also known as Catanduanes Abaca Festival, is an annual celebration held in Virac, Catanduanes, Philippines, during the fourth week of May. It highlights the abacá fiber, the Manila hemp industry, and the resilient culture of Catanduanes. 

The festival showcases the island’s unique identity and culture, particularly its strong connection to the abaca fiber industry.

With the theme “Kusog nin Islang Maogma: Pinagtibay nin Abaca,” the festival will showcase the island’s strength, unity, and resilience—rooted in its thriving abaca industry.

Highlights of the event include the 4th Arte Isla Art Exhibit, Agri, Trade and Tourism Fair, Drum and Lyre Competition, and the vibrant Street Dance Competition. Additional activities are still being finalized to complete the festival lineup.

Now in its ninth year, the Abaca Festival continues to celebrate local culture, boost tourism, and foster a deeper sense of community pride throughout the island.