Tahum Festival spotlights ‘The Filipino Spirit’

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By Mariela Angella Oladive

In a celebration of Filipino culture, creativity, and community, the Tahum: A Pop-Up Festival 2024 kicked off its three-day fair on February 2 at the Iloilo Convention Center in the Iloilo Business Park district.

Organized by the Assumption Iloilo Educational Foundation, Inc. (AIEF Inc.), the festival is the biggest all-Filipino pop-up in Western Visayas, with the primary goal of raising funds for less-privileged students while showcasing the diverse beauty of local products.

Foundation president Marjorie Florete emphasized that Tahum goes beyond being just a festival.

“Tahum is more than just a festival; it stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Filipino. It is a platform where we gather and showcase the richness of our heritage, the ingenuity of our artisans, and the resilience of our community,” she said in her message.

“At the heart of Tahum lies the core mission of AIEF, which is to provide scholars with transformative education,” she added, highlighting the belief that education is not only a pathway to personal success but also a catalyst for positive change in society.

Through the festival, AIEF Inc. aims to support scholars on their journey towards a brighter future, empowering them to become leaders and changemakers.

Now in its fourth year, Tahum features 75 exhibitors from various parts of the country, including Manila, Cebu, Bacolod, Antique, Capiz, Baguio, and Iloilo.

The festival presents the best of Filipino creativity, showcasing a wide range of products such as clothes, jewelry, lifestyle items, furniture, and delicious local cuisine from carefully curated exhibitors at the Namit food sections.

Highlights of the exhibit include products from esteemed Ilonggo fashion designer Jor-El Espina, renowned jewelry designer Arnel Papa, Alexander Fragrance, as well as new additions from Cheeky Chic and Strozzi from Cebu. Participants from Batangas also showcase their unique weaves, adding a touch of regional diversity to the event.

The festival, which ran until February 4, was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by key personalities, further emphasizing the collaborative spirit and commitment to uplifting local communities.

With 100% of the proceeds going directly to beneficiaries, Tahum not only celebrates the Filipino spirit but also actively contributes to the education and empowerment of the nation’s future community builders.