Tawilis Festival

What is Tawilis?

Tawilis (scientific name Sardinella tawilis) is a breed of fish endemic to Taal Lake.

This small, tasty variety of fish is one of the unique breeds that evolved when the Taal Lake was boxed out from the entirety of the Balayan Bay due to the eruption of the Taal Volcano in the 1800s.

Tawilis is best harvested in the months of August to September for the calm winds and gentle waves make an ideal home for the breed.

Tawilis Festival

Tawilis Festival was initially organized as the municipality’s entry to the 2009 Ala Eh Festival—the festival of festivals in Batangas.

The Tawilis Festival has continued years since and has been deeply ingrained in the Agoncillian culture for it has evolved into something deeper - an appreciation of the bountiful harvests from Taal Lake.

The week-long festivities usually include a trade fair promoting the local produce, street and court dance competitions which are frequented by tourists from Manila and other neighboring towns.

Efforts have been exerted to bring back the festival that celebrates the tawilis - a trademark product of Agoncillo - in 2020 but the inevitable Taal eruption and the social-gathering-ending pandemic happened.

Dance Celebrations

Pictures and Descriptions

Ala eh Festival Contestants
Street Dance Contest

Activities and Events

This chapter explores the vibrant events and gatherings in Agoncillo, where celebrations bring the community together, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie among Agoncillians. From traditional festivals to communal gatherings, these activities highlight the shared values, unity, and cultural pride that define the spirit of Agoncillo.

Agoncillo Founding Anniversary

The Founding Celebration Activities of Agoncillo bring the community together with lively events that showcase the town's spirit and heritage. Highlights include a Parade of Business Establishments celebrating local enterprises, a colorful Fun Kite Flying event, an energetic Fun Run, and a Cycling Competition through scenic routes. Traditional Karera de Paso horse races add excitement, while the Ginoong Agoncillo and Mutya ng Agoncillo pageants honor local talent and beauty. These activities celebrate Agoncillo's vibrant community and shared pride in its cultural roots.

LGU Gala Night

The LGU Agoncillo Gala Night marks the first glamorous gathering dedicated to honoring the dedication and achievements of Agoncillo's local government employees. This elegant evening features employees dressed in their finest evening attire, celebrating a night filled with glamour, joy, and camaraderie. It's a special occasion to recognize the hard work and commitment of the LGU staff who contribute to the community's growth and success.

Tawilis Cookfest

The Tawilis Cookfest serves as the centerpiece of the town's festivities, bringing together local chefs, students, and home cooks. Participants are challenged to reinvent the traditional tawilis, moving beyond the well-loved "crispy fried" style to create gourmet dishes. From pasta infusions and savory stews to creative appetizers, the event highlights the versatility of this tiny but mighty fish.

Coastal Clean-up

The Coastal Clean-Up is a regular, community-driven initiative dedicated to promoting a clean and safe environment for everyone. Volunteers come together to remove waste and debris from the coastline, helping to protect the ecological balance and biodiversity of Taal Lake. This effort ensures the preservation of the lake's natural beauty, supports local wildlife, and contributes to a healthier, more sustainable ecosystem for future generations.

Escoda Camp 2024

Our beloved Mayor Atty. Cinderella Valenton-Reyes, also the Council President of the GSP Batangas Council, visited and checked on various schools under the Agoncillo Sub-Office. The simultaneous Provincial Esconda Camp 2024 with a total of 809 girl campers from all participating schools. Mayor Cindy shared that she has been a Girl Scout since Grade 1, and this experience played a significant role in shaping her character, providing her with a strong foundation for leadership.

Tree Growing

Tree Growing is an important initiative aimed at reducing our carbon footprint, promoting environmental awareness, and protecting Mother Earth. By planting trees, we contribute to the restoration of natural ecosystems, enhance air quality, and help combat climate change. This simple yet powerful act encourages a deeper connection with nature and inspires others to take part in preserving the planet for future generations.