A Thanksgiving for Abudance: Sanggi Festival of Tabogon
The Philippines is best known for its vibrant and lively culture, characterized by an abundance of exciting and colorful festivities. Festivals provide a perfect opportunity to witness and immerse yourself in the cultural essence of a place in the most authentic way. Local and foreign tourists gather to participate in its cultural celebrations and experience the euphoria of diverse festivals.
History of Tabogon
The town of Tabogon is situated in the northeastern coast of the island of Cebu and is about 93 kilometers from Cebu City. The town is bounded on the north by the City of Bogo, on the south by municipality of Borbon, on the west by municipality of San Remegio and on the east by the Camotes Sea.
Tabogon was once known as “Aguho“. It was named after the Aguho trees who provided shelter to the locals who are who are repeatedly raided by Moro marauders. The settlement became known as Aguho since it has become a known landmark to everyone.
During the 16th century, Spaniards helped in the resettlement of the place thus giving birth to the town’s name, Tabogon. Tabogon is a vernacular that means “to be driven away“. By 1827, the town of Tabogon was formally founded.
The town of Tabogon is mainly engaged in corn farming, the local town officials has decided to focus on this aspect of the lives of its people thus the celebration of Sanggi Festival.
Sanggi Festival of Tabogon
Celebrated every third week of May during the feast of their patron saint, San Isidro Labrador, Sanggi Festival is intended to showcase the socio-cultural and religious aspect of the lives of Taboganons. Sanggi Festival contains a wide range of activities related to farming – “pamugas” (sowing), “sanggi” (harvesting) and “pasalamat” (thanksgiving).
Sanggi is a Cebuano term for “Harvest“.
Below are photos from the recent Sanggi Festival 2023.
How to get to Tabogon town
The best possible route going to Tabogon is via the Central Nautical Highway.
From Cebu North Bus Terminal in Cebu City, take a bus or a van (whichever suits you best) going to Tabogon. The trip usually takes 2 – 2.5 hours depending on the traffic and fare costs around P200.
Insider Tips
For us who loves coffee, it is more than just a beverage—it is a source of inspiration, comfort, and an essential part of our daily routine. A bad day with coffee is better than a good day without it, agree?
If you are in Tabogon, have your caffeine-fix at the following spots.
The Barista’s Place
Eddies’s Cafe
Festivals hold a significant place within the cultural fabric of the Philippines, with a celebration happening every month throughout the year, it is no surprise that we Filipino are among the happiest.
On to the next festival, shall we?
