ISABELA – The highly anticipated Bambanti Festival 2025 lit up Ilagan, Isabela, from January 20 to 25, drawing locals and visitors from across the country to celebrate the province’s rich agricultural legacy. As one of the Philippines’ most vibrant cultural festivals, this year’s edition was bigger and more spectacular than ever, highlighting Isabela’s bountiful harvest, the dedication of its farmers, and its commitment to sustainability in agriculture.
A Celebration of Resilience and Agricultural Excellence
The Bambanti Festival derives its name from the Ilocano word for “scarecrow,” a powerful symbol of protection for crops and a tribute to the hardworking farmers who sustain Isabela’s thriving agricultural economy. Over six days, Ilagan became the heart of a colorful festivity filled with grand parades, cultural performances, street dancing, and agricultural exhibitions, showcasing the province’s heritage and diverse produce, from lush rice fields to fresh fruits and vegetables.
One of the festival’s most enchanting sights was Bambanti Village at the Isabela Provincial Capitol Compound. Each evening, the village transformed into a dazzling spectacle, with 34 eco-tourism booths and giant scarecrow entries crafted by artisans from the province’s 32 municipalities and two cities. These masterpieces, assessed by a panel of judges, competed for the honor of being the festival’s most visually stunning attraction.
Cauayan City’s Filipino-Indian Beauty Crowned Queen Isabela 2025
In a night of elegance and cultural pride, Jarina K. Sandhu of Cauayan City was crowned Queen Isabela 2025 at the Capital Arena in Ilagan. Many netizens noted her resemblance to Miss Universe 2021 Harnaaz Sandhu, adding to the excitement of her victory.
Jarina is set to represent Isabela in Miss Universe Philippines 2025, proudly bringing her province’s essence to the national stage. Committed to advocating for no poverty and zero hunger, she aligns her platform with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
Other Titleholders:
- Queen Isabela Tourism – Mhira Angelene P. Valenciano (Cordon)
- Queen Isabela Culture and the Arts – Johnlene E. Ariola (City of Ilagan)
- 1st Runner-Up – Jhudiel Eunisse M. Taguinod (Echague)
- 2nd Runner-Up – Criselle Anne Gregorio (Ramon)
The Grand Coronation Night, hosted by Rayver Cruz and Emma Tiglao, featured a distinguished panel of judges, including world-renowned designer Albert Andrada, actress Angel Aquino, and Miss Universe 2013 3rd Runner-Up Ariella Arida.
Makan ken Mainum Competition Showcases Isabela’s Finest Flavors
One of the festival’s most anticipated events, the Makan ken Mainum Competition, highlighted Isabela’s rich culinary heritage. Representatives from 32 municipalities and two cities showcased their finest traditional dishes and signature beverages, crafted from the province’s finest ingredients.
This year’s competition shined a spotlight on Pinilisa Rice (Jones), Cacao, and Isabela Squash, emphasizing their significance in local cuisine. Vice Governor Faustino “Bojie” G. Dy III, the festival’s Director General, unveiled Pinilisa Rice and Squash as the Makan challenge’s secret ingredients, while participants crafted a non-alcoholic cacao-based beverage for the Mainum category, celebrating Isabela’s thriving cacao industry.
Promoting inclusivity, this year’s competition required each participating team to include at least one LGBTQ+ member, underscoring the festival’s commitment to diversity in both culture and cuisine.
Bambanti Festival King and Queen Dazzle at Queen Isabela Park
The Bambanti Festival King and Queen Presentation on January 23 mesmerized audiences as 13 municipalities and cities showcased stunning costumes inspired by their respective regional festivals and cultural heritage.
Competition Categories:
- Category A: Roxas, Jones, Cauayan City, Palanan, Echague, Alicia, City of Ilagan
- Category B: Santo Tomas, San Manuel, Santa Maria, San Pablo, Luna, San Isidro
Isabela Welcomes 24-Nation Diplomatic Delegation
As part of a Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)-led familiarization tour, Isabela played host to a distinguished diplomatic delegation from 24 nations on January 24-25. The delegation, comprising 21 ambassadors, two Chargé d’Affaires, one Deputy Chief of Mission, and DFA officials, represented key nations including Japan, Germany, Brazil, and Thailand.
The tour, hosted by Governor Rodolfo “Rodito” Albano III and Vice Governor Faustino “Bojie” Dy III, highlighted:
- Isabela’s tourism and investment opportunities
- Culinary and cultural showcases
- Visits to historical landmarks and sustainable farming sites
- An exclusive diplomatic reception fostering international partnerships
Among the distinguished guests were:
- Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene Albano
- Senator Bong Revilla
- Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) President Kaye C. Tinga
- NCCA Chairman Victorino M. Manalo
- JCI Senate Philippines President Dr. Cecilia La Madrid-Dy
- Liga ng mga Barangay National President Jessica Dy
This high-profile visit positions Isabela as a premier destination for trade, tourism, and global collaboration.
Governor Rodito Albano Opens Spectacular Dance Competitions
A sea of thousands of Isabeleños filled the Isabela Sports Complex to witness 13 contingents, dressed as scarecrows, perform electrifying routines in the Street Dance Competition and Festival Dance Showdown. More than a contest, the performances served as a tribute to the province’s farmers, the backbone of Isabela’s economy.
Governor Rodito Albano officially opened the competitions, while Vice Governor Dy emphasized the significance of this year’s festival with the presence of esteemed resident ambassadors to the Philippines.
Bambanti 2025 Musical Extravaganza: A Night to Remember
The Bambanti Musical 2025 at the Isabela Sports Complex was a show-stopping spectacle featuring stellar performances from both local and national talent.
The star-studded lineup included Ely Buendia, Bea Alonzo, Moonstar88, Pinopela, and The Whiplash Dance Company, captivating the audience with electrifying performances. The night culminated in a breathtaking fireworks display, lighting up the sky and making Bambanti Festival 2025 a celebration to remember!
A Legacy of Culture and Community
The Bambanti Festival 2025 once again solidified Isabela’s reputation as a province rich in heritage, resilience, and innovation. With its spectacular performances, grand celebrations, and commitment to inclusivity, this year’s festival left an unforgettable mark on all who attended.
See you at Bambanti Festival 2026! 🎉
