Kadaugan sa Mactan is an annual reenactment of The Battle of Mactan at its site on the beach of barangay Mactan which features Lapulapus victory on April 27th of each year.
The events include a fluvial procession of decorated bancas (canoes) representing
Magellans three ships, the planting of the Cross of Magellan, the baptism of the natives followed by the battle
The 3 ships of Magellan are represented by the bancas or canoes and they are made to lead a river procession up to the beach. This act is followed by the re-enactment of the planting of the Magellans Cross leading to the final act of Lapu-Lapus victory. Kadaugan sa Mactan literally implies about the Victory of Mactan.
It was also called Bahugbahug sa Mactan or Melee at Mactan when it was initially staged in 1981. The exact time of the commencement of the festival mostly depends on the tidal conditions and otherwise it is known to begin at around 8 in the early morning hours. This festival is mostly celebrated on the 27th of April with much grandeur and pageantry. This festival grants the Cebuano people a good opportunity to re-visit the days of Mactan Battle between Magellan and Lapu-Lapu and also to celebrate their history and events.
Being in Cebu you shouldnt miss out on a visit to this grand celebration in order to get a clear idea about Cebuano history and culture.