Saulog 2024, the much-anticipated festival of Tagbilaran City in honor of its patron Saint, Señor San Jose, has commenced with a series of lively events at the Tagbilaran Friendship Park in Barangay Bool.
Mayor Jane Yap, speaking during the official launching of Saulog 2024 said, “Saulog 2024 is more than just a festival; it’s a jubilant celebration of our city’s dynamic culture and the strength of our unity. The relaunch of the Blood Compact Shrine and the unveiling of the Atty. Zoilo D. Dejaresco Jr. Amphitheater underscores our commitment to preserving and promoting our rich history while providing spaces for our community to come together.”
The festivities began with the ceremonial relaunching of the Blood Compact Shrine, featuring statues by a Boholano, nat’l artist Napoleon Abueva. The Shrine is now situated in the park.
Mayor Yap led the wreath laying/floral dedication in honor of the 459th Blood Compact Anniversary. Joining her were Vice Mayor Adam Relson Jala, Diocese of Tagbilaran Bishop Alberto Uy, Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado, Congressman Edgar Chatto, and Vice-Governor Dionisio Victor Balite, among others.
There was also the unveiling and blessing of the Atty. Zoilo D. Dejaresco Jr. Amphitheater.
Prior to the park activities was a Holy Mass officiated by Bishop Uy and held at the San Vicente Ferrer Parish Church. This brought together department heads and employees from the City Government of Tagbilaran.
Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Maria Esperanza Christina Garcia-Frasco, represented by DOT-7 Regional Director Judilyn Quiachon, delivered an inspirational message.
Governor Aumentado, Congressman Chatto, Peter Dejaresco, and Bishop Uy also shared their messages during the event.
Mayor Yap, in her message, urged everyone to embrace the relevance of the festivities, emphasizing the importance of cherishing our shared heritage. She encouraged active participation, not only for the cultural experience but also for the economic gains and tourism opportunities Saulog Tagbilaran brings to the people.
The event also presentated the Mutya sa Tagbilaran 2024 candidates and the official launch of Saulog Tagbilaran 2024. The festivities reached their peak with the finale number: a dance to the beat, tune and rhythm of the Saulog Tagbilaran Jingle.
A series of performances by the Vanguardians Dance Company, singer Jennifer Ann Talisic-Ariate, and the Lungsoranon Performing Arts Ensemble (LUPAE) added color and excitement to the celebration.
This year’s Saulog Tagbilaran will be packed with activities and major events: the Saulog Sports Grand Opening on April 17, 2024; Mutya sa Tagbilaran on April 20, 2024; Saulog Festival King and Queen on April 23, 2024; DuEkSam and Yamaha Night featuring Bamboo and Mayonnaise on April 27, 2024, Saulog Street Dancing Competition and Parade on May 1, 2024 and the Maoy sa Mayo Saulog Concert with Juan Karlos and Freestyle on May 4, 2024.
Regular Saulog activities such as the Saulog Tagbilaran Bazaar and Nightly Entertainment on April 12-May 4, 2024 at the City Hall grounds, Kumbira sa Tagbilaran on April 20, 2024 at the City Central Market, St. Joseph the Worker Fluvial Parade and Himog Huni Original Songwriting Competition on April 29, 2024, and the Saulog Visual Photo Exhibit on May 11-15, 2024 are going to be staged as well.
Aside from the Saulog Sports Fest which will feature various sports events, the celebration also includes the following activities: Saulog sa mga Bata on April 12, at the City Hall Compound; Saulog Motorshow at Tagbilaran City Friendship Park; and Sony Night at the City Hall Compound on April 13; Acoustic Grab Night on April 13, 20 & 27; Urban Poor Night on April 14; Saulog Senior Citizen Idol on April 16; Saulog Zumba Fest on April 17-18; Victory Band on April 18; City DepEd Night on April 21; Holy Name University Night on April 22; BIT International College Night on April 24; Tagbilaran City College Night on April 25; Seafront Grill and Restaurant Night on April 26; SK Night on April 28; Queen of Tagbilaran on April 29; Reggae Night; Kiss FM Saulog Street Party; and Kumong Bol-anon XV on April 30.
Saulog Tagbilaran celebration continues with Alturas Night Saulog Make Your Moves Interschool Dance on May 3; Saulog Fun Run and Dance on May 5; Bohol Chronicle Walk to Plant: Tree Growing Activity 70th Anniversary – Barangay Cabawan on May 11; Saulog Short Film Festival on May 11-15; Saulog Visual Art Exhibit on May 11-16.
The City Government of Tagbilaran is grateful to Saulog Tagbilaran 2024 Co-Presentors: Provincial Government of Tagbilaran, Copier Source Enterprises, Du Ek Sam (DES) Inc. Special thanks to Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado, Senator Juan Edgardo Angara, Vice Governor Dionisio Victor Balite, Congressman Edgar Chatto, Congresswoman Kristine Alexie Tutor, Board Members Venzencio Arcamo, Lucille Lagunay, Aldner Damalerio, Nicanor Besas, Romulo Cepedoza, and Lawrence Xavier Ancla.
The Saulog Tagbilaran 2024 media partners are The Bohol Tribune, Bohol Chronicle, CDN Digital, DYTR, DYRD, Kiss 102.3 FM, 91.1 Balita FM, Bee FM 927, Bohol Balita Daily News and Bohol News Today.