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Thursday, August 13, 2009

Abaknon Festival: Simple But Proud


Five years ago, our island-town introduced the Abaknon Festival as part of the celebrations for the feast of our patron saint, St. Ignatius of Loyola. Abaknon is the name that collectively embraces all the residents of the island of Capul, who share a unique dialect and a simple lifestyle.



Those who have participated in the frenetic, frenzied dancing in many of the festivals in the Philippines will be taken-aback by the slow, graceful steps of the Abaknon dancers. This is because the festival puts to fore the "Dos Amigos" a folkdance that has been recognized to be historically attached to the islanders.



I was pleasantly surprised to see this year's competing teams in the streetdancing competition. Having been indisposed for most of the recent fiestas, I have not realized just how artistic the participants have grown, and how committed they have become to the task of showcasing the town's cultural heritage. Apparently, my townmates have taken the challenge seriously. Despite the meager resources at their disposal, they were able to create costumes that ingenously incorporated local resources - rice stalks, coconut crowns, sea shells, fish cages and would you believe, live crabs!

Needless to say, I can't be any prouder. Congratulations my kababayans!



5 comments:

Abaniko said...

Here's hoping that tourism will start picking up in your town because of this. I miss taking pictures during festivals. Sama ako minsan sa lugar nyo!

Xprosaic said...

Mukhang nakita ko na yan... di ko lang maalala saan at kailan... jejejejjeje

Anonymous said...

wow, such festivals should be showcased more in the Philippines and be promoted so that tourist can visit... nice post...

Mariale said...

I want to visit your hometown someday. I believe it's really a nice place and calm.

Anonymous said...

These are truly wonderful photos. Why don't you do it professionally? Or have an exhibit in Japan to promote tourism in Philippines. I have a project coming up, which I have been giving some thought lately. If ever, pwede ba kitang kuning photographer? Or use some of your photos? W/ your permission of course. : )

Teresa SE