Traveling to Isabela, the Queen Province of the North, may take a whole day, but the journey is always worth it.
The vast cornfields stretching over 33,500 hectares and the city's ongoing development projects are a testament to its vibrant growth. The city of Ilagan, known as the Corn Capital of the Philippines, is bustling with new roads, bridges, and revitalized tourism sites, thanks to the visionary leadership of Mayor Dr. Josemarie Diaz, often referred to as "The Working Mayor."
Honoring the Corn Farmers Mammangi Festival, named the official festival of Ilagan in 2011, pays tribute to the hardworking corn farmers, or "mammangi." These farmers are the backbone of Ilagan's economy, producing high-quality corn that solidifies the city's status. The festival not only celebrates their efforts but also aims to market Ilagan's products, create employment opportunities, and foster community unity.
Vision for a Liveable City by 2030 The theme for this year's festival, "Liveable City of Ilagan 2030: Isinasapuso Ng Bawat Ilagueño," reflects a shared vision of turning Ilagan into a more liveable city by 2030. This vision includes socio-economic and cultural development, good governance, and improved quality of life for all residents. The festival, held from April 26 to May 11, 2024, featured a range of activities from investor meetings and cultural events to the much-anticipated Festival Street Dance and Gawad Ilagueño awards.
Major Development Projects Ilagan is attracting multi-billion peso investments, particularly in renewable energy, manufacturing, and cold chain industries. A significant project is the P1.8 billion animal feed milling facility by the Thai conglomerate Charoen Pokphand Group, set to benefit many local farmers. Another notable investment is from Igloo Supply Chain Philippines, Inc., which plans to build cold chain facilities to help preserve agricultural produce and reduce spoilage.
Additionally, Ilagan is preparing for a massive 440-megawatt solar farm, a joint venture between San Ignacio Energy Resources Development Corp. and French-owned Total Eren. This project is expected to create 5,000 jobs and support the country's renewable energy goals.
Agricultural Innovations Anticipating the effects of the El Niño phenomenon, Ilagan's farmers planted corn and rice earlier, ensuring a timely harvest before the dry season. The city government supports farmers with subsidies, seeds, and financial assistance. High-value crops like vegetables, fruits, and cassava also thrive in Ilagan, thanks to innovations in agricultural facilities and machinery provided by the local government.
Celebrating Achievements and Community The festival is not just about celebrating the harvest but also recognizing the city's achievements. Monetary benefits were awarded to farmers, and scholarship grants were given to their children. Grand concerts and fun events added to the festive spirit, delighting every Ilagueño.
The Mammangi Festival 2024 showcased Ilagan's progress and its commitment to becoming a liveable city by 2030. With robust investments, agricultural innovations, and community-driven initiatives, Ilagan is well on its way to achieving its ambitious goals. The festival is a heartfelt thanksgiving for the city's abundant harvests and a celebration of its bright future.
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