17/06/2025
CARAGA WELCOMES TGFED: A SHOWCASE OF HERITAGE, HOSPITALITY, AND PARTNERSHIP
The Municipality of Caraga proudly hosted the Philippine Federation of Professional Tour Guides Association (TGFED) during their recent cultural and historical immersion visit, showcasing Caraga’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and the exceptional hospitality of its people.
The visit commenced at San Luis Surfing Beach, where the delegation was warmly received through festive performances by students, teachers, and barangay functionaries led by Barangay San Luis Punong Barangay Alexander Lopez, Jr. This heartfelt welcome set the tone for the entire cultural journey.
At the New Municipal Building — the iconic Rise and Shine Caraga Landmark — LGU-Caraga employees, led by Municipal Administrator and Municipal Assessor Mr. Mark Anthony P. Mocam, extended the municipality’s warm embrace to the guests, reflecting the unity and collaborative spirit of Caraga in championing tourism development.
The delegation proceeded to Caraga Central Elementary School where they were welcomed at the historic Gabaldon Building, a symbol of Caraga’s enduring educational legacy, led by Principal Ma’am Cherry Jane B. Tapiz and faculty.
At San Salvador Del Mundo Church, visitors witnessed moving cultural performances by the students of Caraga National High School headed by Ma’am Marilyn S. Capiña. The church tour was expertly curated by Sir Darius O. Pelayo, enriching the visitors’ appreciation of Caraga’s deep spiritual roots and vibrant cultural identity.
An especially emotional welcome awaited the delegation at Barangay Santiago. Despite their late arrival, students of Santiago National High School under Ma’am Nora F. Palma Gil patiently stood waving flags to greet the guests. The gesture profoundly moved the visitors, many of whom were brought to tears by the sincerity and warmth of Caraga’s youth.
The visit culminated at Pusan Point and the Mandaya Heritage Museum, where Santiago National High School once again performed vibrant cultural dances. The museum tour, personally facilitated by Ma’am Norma Gonos, offered guests a profound glimpse into the Mandaya Tribe’s rich cultural legacy.
During the evening program, the Sidlakan Theater Collective of Caraga National High School presented a powerful performance showcasing the rich cultural traditions of the Mandaya Tribe. The program, hosted by Ms. Lerio Banosoc and Mr. Darius O. Pelayo, provided the guests with the opportunity to express their heartfelt appreciation, many describing their experience as deeply touching and unforgettable.
The success of this event was made possible by the concerted efforts of the entire municipal government, headed by Hon. Mayor Ronie S. Osnan, and the leadership of Executive Assistant IV / Assistant to the Mayor on Tourism Affairs and First Lady of Caraga, Madam Joelita G. Osnan. The preparation and management of the entire activity were meticulously organized and curated by the personnel of the Office of the Municipal Mayor – Tourism Section, ensuring a meaningful and seamless experience for all.
The Municipality of Caraga also extends its deep appreciation to the following individuals and agencies:
Manlilikha ng Bayan – Samporonia Pagsac Madanlo
Caraga Municipal Police Station – PMaj Ross C. Cabigas
Bravo Company, 66IB – 1Lt Joselito C. Española (INF) PA
Bureau of Fire Protection – FINSP Andrino J. Atillo
Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office – Ms. Melanie B. Ibañez
San Salvador Del Mundo Parish – Rev. Fr. Roland Sayman
Caraga National High School – Ma’am Marilyn S. Capiña
San Luis National High School – Sir Rodolfo Banugan
Santiago National High School – Ma’am Nora F. Palma Gil
Caraga Central Elementary School – Ma’am Cherry Jane B. Tapiz
Barangay Caningag - Punong Barangay Encarnita Samot
Barangay San Luis – Punong Barangay Alexander Lopez, Jr.
Barangay Santiago – Punong Barangay Purificacion Ferol
Local Finance Committee – Mr. Ferdinand E. Baldonado, Ms. Geryll Marie C. Agucaito-Matayab, Mr. Bernardo P. Hernaez, Ms. Maristel Lumikid, Mr. Rolando Paalisbo
Sangguniang Bayan Officials – led by Hon. Vice Mayor Melody Anne S. Benitez
Municipal General Services Office – Ms. Angel Vidge Burgos
Personnel from Pusan Point – Mr. Arnel Dungan
Bantay Dagat – Tatay Jolito Pandili, Elmer Maynambong, Alex Pandili, Esterlito Cincol, Baldwin Palmera
Bantay Gubat – Reden Dumay, Hipolito Dongiapon, Milanio Bantayan
Tour Guides – Ms. Daphney C. Cordero, Mr. Jay-Ar Palma, Mr. Rafael M. Magandam, Mr. Santie Tinoy, Mr. Flordino Osnan
Food Preparation – Mr. John Vincent Labasano, Mr. Rhoderick Fallar, Mr. Ronnie Gleen Guerra
The Municipality of Caraga continues to rise as a vibrant tourism destination, proudly preserving its rich cultural heritage while warmly welcoming visitors from across the nation.
