Mahusay! (Beautiful!): Assessing a community-based festival management in the antecedent and subsequent COVID-19 pandemic – the case of Daramsiyao Festival in Daram, Samar, Philippines

Abstract This analysis of festival management before and during the COVID-19 pandemic focused on the Daramsiyao Festival, a local event in Daram, Samar, Philippines. Utilizing a qualitative phenomenological approach, the study identified the role and impact of the festival on its stakeholders and how management processes changed during the pandemic. To gather data, a content analysis of written festival documentation and Hybrid Focus Group Discussion (HFGD) with twelve (n = 12) Daram stakeholders were conducted, utilizing tabular reconnaissance and a semi-structured aide-mémoire. The information was assessed through a Repertory Grid and Thematic Network Analysis. Upon analyzing the stakeholders’ collective and individual experiences, the findings suggested themes that explored the implications of the changing management practices, leading to the development of the SAYAW Framework on Sustainable Community-based Festival Management. The proposed intervention program titled: “Tayo’y MagSAYAW! (Let’s Dance!)” was conceptualized to develop the festival management for future celebrations of the Daramsiyao Festival. The framework introduces five (5) main themes: Substratum, Adaptation, Yare Governance, Acclimation, and Workmanship. Through the comprehensive analysis of the festival subject, primary and secondary stakeholders could adapt to improve the related projects and activities. It also leads to strengthening collaboration and partnership between stakeholders.