Ati-atihan Festival

The Filipino in Me - Insights into Living Heritage

Entry by Earl M. Masangkay. Winnipeg, Manitoba

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Artist's Statement

This is about the Kalibo, Ati-atihan Festival dubbed as the mother of all festivals in the Philippines and the hidden gem of our country. Located also in the oldest province in the Philippines, the province of Aklan. Growing up in the town of Kalibo and celebrating the festival made a huge impact on my childhood and influenced me to become a photographer. The vibrant colors, the beat of the drums on every corner, the crowd dancing, shouting VIVA KAY SENIOR SANTO NIÑO! VIVA! in celebration of the child Jesus the Santo Niño. Although we Aklanons celebrate the festival here in Winnipeg, it still feels different when you celebrate it back at home. The festival takes you back to a time when everything was easy and laid back. I have always been an advocate for the festival, urging people to visit and celebrate with us.

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