Abatan river fest, tour banks on local culture

HISTORIC Abatan River , which entwines the people of Maribojoc, Cortes, Antequera, Balilihan and Catigbian this time rises up to relive the glory it had in a new tourism showcase of cooperative independence. Abatan, the winding river stretching more than 26 kilometers from its deltas at the Maribojoc has always been a critical vein that carried Spanish activity and influence into the hinterlands to the plains of Catigbian. Made famous by the legendary “lingganay'ng ugis” and the gigantic cogtong guarding the bell, the thriving Pueblo de Malabago along its river banks, the famed hilltop bastion of Tamblot makes the river throb with history.

The river also plays host to craftsmen that supply the bulk of native crafts that flood Bohol flea markets. Old time industries also include selling bamboos and riding on them to Maribojoc wharf or Tagbilaran City Port. With Bohol 's carving a niche in eco-cultural tourism, no less than Cong. Edgar Chatto, the current Congressional Committee on Tourism Chair initiated the development of the Abatan River eco-tour and its components.

Set up with the organization of the Abatan River Management Council to manage and oversee the development and operation of the Abatan River Development and its showcases, the organizers made sure that new eco tour to open just 15 minutes from the city is all ready. First major milestone for the council was the crafting of the Abatan Code which details the guidelines in the operation and establishment of businesses within the area.

The code anticipated the establishment of key tourism offers which will usher the Abatan River Cruise using floating restaurants, motorboats, paddle boats for kayaking, small cottages and inns, souvenir shops, restaurants along the river banks. A grand launching of the Abatan River Festival and Tour embarks at the Abatan Bridge on May 20, says Abatan River Management Council chairman and Maribojoc Mayor Gavino Redulla. The days also has a set mass at 8:00 a.m. and proceeds with the Blessing of Booths at Maribojoc (Booths). At 9:00 a.m. in Antequera, a Trade Fair opens while simultaneous to that is the opening of Abatan Lincod Mangrove Growers Organization (ALIMANGO) Boardwalk.

Kite Flying Contest will also take the shies in Catigbian at 10:00 a.m. while the Resto-Bar goes on its maiden voyage. Officials of five municipalities boards the restobar, and a fluvial parade with local boat paddlers, Kayaks, and participated in by provincial officials take the route. Boat Rowing contest sails in Cortes before the traditional barrio fiesta spreads at noon. Kayaks take the river at 1:00 pm , and food preparation contest cooks in Balilihan at 2:00 . At 3:00 p.m. , a symposia on culinary arts, environment protection and eco tourism also stages at the same time. Night sees a concert by the Abatan River featuring Maribojoc and Antequera bands and rondallas.

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