Timpuyog Festival is an annual event that celebrates the unity and culture of the people of Kiamba, a coastal town in the province of Sarangani in the Philippines. The festival is held every February 14, coinciding with the founding anniversary of Kiamba, which was established in 1954. The word Timpuyog comes from the Ilocano language, which means “unity” or “togetherness”. The festival aims to showcase the rich and diverse culture and traditions of the various ethnic groups that inhabit Kiamba, such as the Ilocano, Cebuano, Maguindanaon, Tiruray, Manobo, and Tagalog.

The festival is marked by culturally enriching, meaningful, and exciting events that attract thousands of local and foreign tourists every year. One of the main highlights of Timpuyog Festival is the Ingkil-Ingkil or the street dancing competition. This event depicts the culture, values, and traditions of Kiamba through colorful costumes, accessories, and musical instruments made from natural materials. The performers parade along the streets of Kiamba while gracefully dancing to the beat of gongs, drums, flutes, and bamboo zithers. The dances also tell stories of the town’s history, such as the arrival of the first settlers, the establishment of the salt industry, and the reign of peace and harmony among the different tribes.

Another highlight is the Agri-Tourism Trade Fair, where visitors can buy and taste various products made by the local farmers, fisherfolk, and entrepreneurs. Some of the products include salt, dried fish, rice cakes, coconut wine, honey, coffee, fruits, vegetables, handicrafts, and souvenirs. The trade fair also showcases the town’s ecotourism attractions, such as the white sand beaches, waterfalls, caves, mangrove forests, coral reefs, and marine sanctuaries.

Other activities that celebrate the unity and culture of Kiamba include the Cultural Night, where different groups perform songs, dances, dramas, and other forms of entertainment; the Search for Mutya ng Kiamba, where beautiful and talented ladies compete for the title of Miss Kiamba; the Fluvial Parade, where decorated boats sail along the coast to honor the patron saint of fishermen; and the Thanksgiving Mass, where people express their gratitude to God for all the blessings they have received.

One of the most unique features of Timpuyog Festival is the display of thousands of colorful umbrellas at the Municipal Plaza of Kiamba. The umbrellas symbolize the unity and diversity of the people of Kiamba. They also add a festive and vibrant atmosphere to the town. The umbrellas are put up at the start of the festival and are taken down at the end.

Timpuyog Festival is a rare opportunity to witness and experience the unity and culture of Kiamba. It is a celebration of their resilience, diversity, and harmony as a people. It is also a reminder of their valuable contribution to the Philippine society and nationhood.