The annual week-long Bangkero Festival in Pagsanjan, Laguna has been shortened to one-day on April 25, 2026 as part of the “whole-of-government” response to conserve energy and resources. The event recognizes boat oprators’ invaluable contribution to the tourism industry of the town. (Infographics from Pagsanjan Tourism Office)
CALAMBA CITY, Laguna – The tourism-rich town of Pagsanjan will condense its annual week-long Bangkero Festival into a single day on Saturday, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Memorandum Order 110 declaring a national energy emergency due to the Middle East crisis.
Mayor Jan Garcia announced the change in a video message posted Friday, renaming the event “Araw ng mga Bangkero” to pay tribute to boat operators amid austerity measures.
“This celebration recognizes the boatmen’s invaluable contribution to our tourism industry,” Garcia said. “Their impressive skill and dexterity in maneuvering boats upstream against the wild rapids continue to amaze visitors from around the world.”
Activities for the boat operator-centric event include a boat race competition, traditional Filipino parlor games, and the distribution of special assistance packages.
The day will wrap up with performances by local talents and invited guests at the town plaza.
The event, a past winner of provincial tourism awards, celebrates the boat operator’s role in sustaining the town’s economy under the theme “Isang Araw. Isang Diwa. Isang Bayan.”
It was shortened as part of the “whole-of-government” response to conserve energy and resources (PNA)