Under the proficient leadership of the late Juan Gonzales, the “Ipilanos” ardently sought to reclaim their autonomy. Guided by his vision, their desire was ultimately realized on August 14, 1947, when the Municipal Charter (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 80) was signed by the late President Manuel A. Roxas. This historic document formally established the Municipality of Trinidad, incorporating the once-known “Ipil” and its surrounding barangays. The momentous occasion occurred on September 1, 1947, etching a significant chapter in the town’s history and solidifying its identity as the vibrant and self-governing Municipality of Trinidad. The town’s name, “TRINIDAD,” was bestowed in honor of the wife of the late President Manuel A. Roxas and as a tribute to the Patron of Talibon, The Most Holy Trinity.
The municipality annually hosts the “AGRO-FAIR,” a showcase of agricultural products participated in by 20 different barangays. This event features various agricultural activities, including carabao raising, competitions for the largest fruit or vegetable, Best Karomata Contest, engaging booth contests and others activities that showcased Trinidadnon’s talent.
Additionally, the festivities spotlight the “TANOD DRILL,” wherein each barangay police force demonstrates their coordination and adherence to drill procedures. The celebration culminates with a captivating “DRUM & LYRE Corps. SHOWDOWN,” engaging both elementary and secondary levels from across the town. This multifaceted celebration not only highlights the town’s agricultural richness but also showcases the unity and skill of its residents, contributing to the vibrant and progressive spirit of the Municipality of Trinidad. Some Balikbayans return from other countries specifically to celebrate the town anniversary and reunite with their families.
CULTURAL HISTORY
Trinidad was once known as barrio Ipil, a place abundant of many big Ipil Trees along the riverbank. This river ferried commerce from neighboring islands of Bien Unido, Getafe, Talibon and Ubay. The Karaomata, full of agricultural products from the highlanders and main land occupants of Barrio Ipil and farmers from the interior towns of Bohol found their way into the market by the Ipil Riverbank where they meet the islanders bringing with them their marine products. Barter trades are very common during the early 1900. Barrio Ipil (now Trinidad) was the center of commerce during those days. Business flourished with the use of the Karomata (cart) and the Balsahan (psledge) which were the common modes of transportation during that time.
The Municipality of Trinidad owes its roots to the historical barter trades of then-known Barrio Ipil as the start of civilization and commerce in the community. The trades were made successful using carabao-drawn carts (KAROMATA) which were used +to transport goods from the highlands and islands of neighboring towns to the barter grounds of Barrio Ipil.
Trinidad has adopted the Karomata Festival as a historical and cultural celebration.
DECLARATION OF POLICY
It is the declared policy of the Municipality of Trinidad to celebrate yearly, the Karomata Festival during the Month of May in order to commemorate its historical and cultural heritage. And further, to promote tourism-related activities as well as spur economic investment for their community. Towards this end, the Municipality shall endeavor to create developmental policies which are inclusive, sustainable and ecologically friendly to all sectors of society.
THE FESTIVAL
Since its inception in the year 2007, the celebration of the Karomata Festival has always been commemorated during the September 1st Town Anniversary. As the Karomata Festival marks its 14th year, the Local Government Unit of Trinidad depicts a strengthened partnership of church and state as we weave faith and tradition in the celebration of the Karomata Festival during the month of May. Reflecting a culmination of our devotion to St. Isidore the Labourer, the Karomata Festival is a tribute to the farmers’ hard work and dedication to provide for the family and the community. Last year we began a new era of raising cultural awareness among Trinidadnons as we inculcated the values of culture and tradition to our focal participants, the educators and students of Trinidad Municipal College. We shift the focus by letting the festival take root through the educational system and instill cultural unity within the largest educational institution of the Municipality of Trinidad.
