Roaring back from the pre-pandemic state, the revered Mother of Philippine Festivals – Kalibo Ati Atihan raved, again, the crowd with its rustic ways and iconic merrymaking. The hordes of marching bands and the tribe contingents donned with colorful and traditional materials treading the tight lattice of the Kalibo’s downtown and the thousands unleashed its reverbing spirit. Intertwined with the locals’ and guests’ reverence for the Senyor Sto. Nino, and their traditional ways of celebrating have cemented the festival’s branding as the most immersive and riveting among all.
Arriving on a Saturday full flight with Philippine Airlines in Kalibo, the festival weekend has proven again its beckoning power evident with the tightly packed streets and spaces. Kiosks, eateries, tents, and all accommodations were full to the brim. According to their energetic young mayor, Hon. Juris B. Sucro, the number has yet to fully return to pre-pandemic numbers during a courtesy visit to his office with our team. But from a guest standpoint, the magnanimous crowd already speaks – it’s back!
THE KALIBO ATI ATIHAN SPIRIT
The experience is different at the staging area where we were able to marvel at the performances of almost more than 30 tribe contingents spanning from many categories. Amongst my favorites are the Balik Ati Category and the Big Tribe Category. There’s something magical about witnessing dancers become living canvases, telling stories with their every movement and blending folklore with contemporary flair. What makes it different from the Sinulog and Dinagyang Festivals respectively, the tribe parade is more deeply grounded and rooted. The tribe’s representations and ensemble executions are far more inclusive and conventional. You would identify that all folks are welcome to join a tribe, regardless of gender, age, or looks – as long as there is a deep reverence for faith, let’s also add the endurance to dance almost all day. Guests and visitors can dance and chant along, freely. Yes, you can do this unlike in Sinulog and Dinagyang where watchers are glued to their seats and respective spots for the entire main parade event.
Joining the Sunday afternoon “Sadsad”, the streets were alive with a kaleidoscope of hues, each step reverberating with the rhythmic beats of drums and the laughter of revelers. It was always like being transported to a different dimension where tradition meets celebration, and the streets of downtown Kalibo become a canvas for an explosion of the Ati Aihan culture, especially if it is your first time. Certainly, it was impossible not to get swept up in the infectious energy. The streets were lined with locals and tourists alike, all eagerly soaking in the spectacle.
THE ATI ATIHAN GALLERY
I couldn’t help but marvel at the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into creating these masterpieces from each contingent. Seeing the headdresses, the body armor style garb, and the handheld spears were highly detailed. If you are interested in marveling with previous champions and winners, best to visit the Ati Atihan Gallery located at Pastrana Park. See on display the delicately and intricately made Ati Tribe Warrior Garb, curated paintings, and miniature gowns using traditional textiles and accessories expressing revelry to Sto. Nino.
One of the highlights for me was the camaraderie among the participants and guests. There is almost an unspoken rule where documenting the contingents, taking selfies and vlogging did not greatly hampered the festival revelry ecosystem.
TAKEAWAY
From the youngest dancers to the seasoned performers, everyone seemed to be part of one big, happy family. The genuine smiles and high-fives exchanged between participants and spectators created an atmosphere of pure bliss.
But let’s talk about the music – oh, the music from the hordes of drum and bugle team! The rhythmic beats of the drums and the lively tunes filled the air, creating a contagious vibe that had everyone moving to the rhythm. I always found myself swaying, flicking my shoulders and tapping my feet, completely surrendering to the infectious melody.
AND THE BEST PART?
The spontaneous street parties that erupted at every turn! The locals sure know how to celebrate, and it’s impossible not to get swept up in the impromptu dance parties that break out throughout the festival. It felt like a giant, joyous block party where everyone was invited, and the only rule was to have a good time.
The Kalibo Ati Atihan Festival is celebrated every Third Weekend of January. If you wish to revel and marvel on such grounded festival, suggest to book a flight bound to Kalibo on a preceding Weekday and on a Monday after. Our experience is made possible by the Tourism Promotions Board, and the tour is handled by Las Islas Travel and Tours.