TIM eMagazine Volume 2 Issue 9 | Page 41

TIM eMagazine Vol.2 Issue 9 S ix days of fun, frolic and feasts for the senses best described the 3rd annual MIMAROPA Festival held last November 20 to 25 in picturesque Odiongan, Romblon. The MIMAROPA sub-region comprises the provinces of MIndoro (Occidental and Oriental), MArinduque, ROmblon, and Palawan. This year, thanks to the Department of Tourism (DOT), members of the media and renowned travel bloggers went to Odiongan last November 21-23. They flew via Cebu Pacific Air and enjoyed the relaxing surroundings and water sports amenities of Binucot Beach Resort where they were billeted. All were greeted with a very warm welcome from the airport until the end of the festival. Despite the limited time, the short visit indeed enticed even the first-time visitor to the region with its pristine delights that seemed untouched by the hectic paces of modernization. Touted as the Marble Capital of the Philippines, Romblon truly spells enchantment with its untouched beaches, pristine waters, waterfalls, and ancestral edifices. During a press conference at Odiongan, Romblon Governor Eduardo Firmalo stressed MIMAROPA’s role and vision in promoting the region as one of being “We are one family. We help each other. We work together. We promote unity.” He added that in terms of its tourism potential, each province is uniquely different, with the festival’s purpose not just to promote tourism, but to also promote certain ties, connectivity, and camaraderie between MIMAROPA and the different regions of the country. Other purposes include investment, trade opportunities, and establishing jobs. Odiongan City Mayor Trina Firmalo-Fabic added that the MIMAROPA Festival has rekindled old ties, generated income, and stimulated a lot of interest not The grand street parade of MIMAROPA Festival PUERTO PRINCESA 41