Ati-Atihan Festival is a feast held annually in January in honor of the Santo Niño(Infant Jesus), concluding on the third Sunday, in the island and town of Kalibo, Aklan in the Philippines. The name “Ati-Atihan” means “to be like Aetas” or “make believe Ati’s.” Aetas were the primary settlers in the islands according to history books. They too are the earliest settlers of Panay Island where the province of Aklan is situated. The festival consists of tribal dance, music, accompanied by indigenous costumes and weapons, and parade along the street. Christians and non-Christians observe this day with religious processions. It has inspired many other Philippine Festivals including the Sinulog Festival of Cebu and Dinagyang of Iloilo, both adaptations of the Kalibo Ati-Atihan Festival.
Anyway, the simple Ati-atihan happens last 20th day of May 2013, here in our Village. That time we celebrate the Kapistahan ni San Isidro Labrador. As one of the in-charge officer in the fiesta activities I am busy to cooperate among the other officer. We have many activities in our place such as Sagala or Santa Cruzan, Mass, Dance Contest, Singing Contest and games. By the way, I’m glad because they have many children joined this activities. While San Isidro Labrador parade in our place the homeowners has throws coins or food to the people who joined the parade.
By the way the kind of occasions happened every year in our place and in some places during fiesta or the month of May. It was really fun and good occasion.
