Compostela Valley marks 'Bulawan Fest'

DAVAO CITY -- Compostela Valley Governor Jayvee Tyron Uy highlighted the progress attained by the province in this year's celebration of Bulawan Festival and 21st founding anniversary.

During Sunday's opening of the weeklong twin celebrations, Uy noted that the province was named as the second most competitive province in 2018.

He added that the province's tourism industry is also growing and huge industries and corporations have started coming in, leading to more jobs and revenue for the provincial government.

According to Uy, Compostela Valley is not only rich in gold but its "true wealth is the people, successes, natural resources, and culture."

Uy said this year's Bulawan Festival is special because the province is also welcoming its new name -- Davao de Oro, which will be submitted to residents in a plebiscite.

"Kung madaog kita sa plebisito, kini na ang ulahing Bulawan Festival na kita tawagong Compostela Valley (If we win in the plebiscite, this will be the last Bulawan Festival under the old province's name)," Uy added.

Carrying the theme "The Gold One. Ang Bulawan sa Tanan", Bulawan Festival and founding anniversary activities will run until March 8.

Sholai Lim, Bulawan Festival action officer, said the festival also serves as the province’s thanksgiving.

The festival kicked off with a "Prosperity Run" early morning on Sunday. Other activities include the Blog/Vlogging Contest, Retrato Photo Contest, Feature writing contest, the search for the Bulawan Queen, and the launching of the campaign for “Yes to Davao de Oro”.

The “Mindanao Trade Exhibit” features Bonsai, Succulents, Orchids and Bougainvillea shows and Comval Rich Biodiversity, the tribal village, De Oro Tsibugan, Sugbahan sa Bulawan and the Jewelry Trade Fair will also highlight the weeklong event.

Pieces of jewelry from pure gold to silver will be on display at the Jewelry Fair showcasing local craftsmanship.

To draw more visitors to witness Bulawan Fest, the provincial government has offered free bus rides from Davao City and pick up of passengers in Panabo and Tagum. (PNA)