This is the second Hugyaw festival held by the Local Government Units here in Samal Island. Hugyaw, means to make some noise, to astound something, or shout….
According to our town mayor that we are one of the many cities here in the Philippines who have several festivals held in a year. True to his word, I believe in his opening speech during the culmination night at the Samal public park which situated near the shoreline. 

Every 3 districts here in Samal Island has it’s own festival, there’s the Kabasan festival, White Nights in Kaputian, the Pangapog festival, and the Caracoles festival; not to mention the indigenous thanksgiving we held here, and several other thanksgiving celebration that we line up during summer time. 
This makes us the most visited place here in the gulf. As more and more mainland people heeding Samal Island for quick get away. The accessibility of the ferry makes the island flock with local tourists every weekend and long holidays.
Festivals are one of the easiest way to attract local and foreign tourists also it creates opportunities among locals here to do business.
Aside from creating jovial mood among locals here in the island it is also another opportunities to meet locals for whom I haven’t seen for quite a while. 
Pageant is also one of the highlights during Hugyaw Festival, its the only time when native from the island can join the contest and vie for the crown as the Mutya ng Byaneng, a yearly contest held and good prizes awaits.
Local residence here contributes to the success of the Hugyaw Festival.
The Hugyaw festival captures the heart of its local constituents and so with other local tourists in the nearby town especially city dwellers who wants to have a change of scene.

After the events party till the break of dawn, from show band to rock n roll band delighted the festive moods of that evening. Place was jampacked with people ready to mingle and party. 
One of the best value I get from Samal island festivities is safety. Here we can party, bring friends and still feel safe, for almost every townfolks know’s me and I know they won’t cause any harm for any stranger whom I’d accompanied. It’s good to feel that the streets I walk in knows my name, feels home again.

the town mayor
Meet our town Mayor if you happen to visit Samal island and wants to make sure that you are speaking with the right person, better be sure your speaking to this person.

the lady in pink is our brgy.capt. the guy his my cousin
In case you wander around Samal island and happens to be in Penaplata, which is one of the town capital of Samal district. Just don’t be shy try to approach this lady. A warm smile awaits you…