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Bakhawan Festival. Bakhawan Festival, which means “Mangrove Festival,” is celebrated in the Municipality of Batuan every 10th of May, where everyone is encouraged to plant mangroves and to spread awareness of the important role of mangroves in our lives. The festival is a celebration of life, a thanksgiving for the gift of nature, the wealth of culture, the bounties of harvest in the seas, and the serenity of island living. The festival features colorful street dances, cultural performances, music, and local showcases, inspired by the richness of island life and the natural beauty of Bongsanglay Natural Park. It also serves as a platform for environmental awareness, promoting the importance of Bongsanglay Natural Park in climate resilience, fisheries, and biodiversity conservation. More than a celebration, the Bakhawan Festival reflects the unity of the community, blending culture, nature, and advocacy—inviting residents and visitors alike to appreciate, protect, and take pride in their coastal heritage.