The vibrant and nature-inspired Bila-Bila Festival 2025 officially took flight on May 19, 2025 in Cawit, Boac, Marinduque, with a stunning and symbolic release of a thousand butterflies during its grand opening ceremony.

Gracing the event was Dr. Leonila T. Baluyut, Assistant Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry – Competitiveness and Innovation Group (DTI-CIG), whose presence underscored the national government’s continuous support for eco-tourism, MSME development, and community-based livelihood initiatives in the countryside.

The festival, now a proud cultural tradition in Marinduque, celebrates the province’s rich natural environment and flourishing butterfly farming industry. The event also marked the 1st Anniversary of the Butterfly Farm Tourism Village, a flagship eco-tourism destination that promotes environmental conservation and empowers local farmers.

In her message, Asec. Baluyut commended the LGU Boac, Provincial Tourism Office, and partner organizations for making the festival a platform for inclusive economic growth, innovation, and community pride. She also reaffirmed DTI’s unwavering support for programs aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those advancing decent work, responsible production, sustainable communities, and biodiversity protection.

DTI Assistant Secretary Leonila Baluyut interacts with butterfly breeders and community members during the Bila-Bila Festival 2025 in Boac, Marinduque, with a decorated stage and attendees in the background.
DTI Assistant Secretary Leonila Baluyut converses with the butterfly breeders of Marinduque prior to the opening program of the Bila-Bila Festival in Boac.

As part of the festival’s weeklong celebration, DTI Marinduque, in partnership with LGU Boac, Philexport MIMAROPA, and JCI Marinduque Copper Queen, successfully conducted the Wings of Creativity: Bila-Bila Festival Canvas Painting Competition on May 16, 2025, at Moriones Arena, San Miguel, Boac, Marinduque. The event gathered talented local artists and youth who expressed their creativity through butterfly-themed artworks reflecting environmental awareness, local identity, and community spirit.

The release of a thousand butterflies served as the festival’s symbolic highlight, embodying wishes for prosperity, harmony, and ecological balance. DTI Marinduque also actively joined the Bila-Bila Festival Parade and proudly participated in the Home & Building Decorating Contest, earning a Consolation Prize for their butterfly-inspired, eco-friendly display.

The Bila-Bila Festival 2025 stands as a testament to Marinduque’s enduring spirit of unity, its commitment to environmental stewardship, and its vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. DTI Marinduque remains steadfast in supporting local initiatives that uplift communities, celebrate heritage, and build a sustainable, inclusive future for every Marinduqueño. ♦

Date of Release: 02 June 2025

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