Last Saturday was my first Aliwan experience. Yup, the festival of Philippine festivals showdown in our nation’s capital has put the bayside of Manila into a halt as country’s premiere festivals converge to bring out the best out of celebrating the Filipino culture. The country’s grandest festivities compete here for the one million pesos prize and prestige.
Together with Eric of Byahilo.com, Marcos of ExploreIloilo.com, Alvin and the rest of my barkada, we’ve witnessed street dancing and power presentations in Manila setting. It made me think and feel that I was home. The beating of the drums and festive atmosphere despite the heat of the afternoon (that turned into a wet and wild party in the evening due to summer rain).
The said event was initiated by the Manila Broadcasting Company…kelangan pa bang i-memorize yan? Bisyo na to! Yup, owner of radio stations Love Radio, DZRH, Yes! FM & 96.3 WRock. It is an effort to bring in the best fiestas from dfferent parts of the country in one venue, perfect for those who are deprived of travelling through the scattered islands of the republic who would like to have experience the festivities of the provincias. Also at the same time, the large provinciano migrant population of Manila would taste their home in its festive mood, a good way to cherish and be proud of their hometowns. Started 7 years ago, it has now grown into the attention of the usual busy Metro Manila residents to take time to smell the flowers.
For this year, emerging from the 20 something contingents that joined the said festivities, the top three were:
1. Buyugan Festival of Abuyog, Leyte – Grand Champion
Kasag Festival of Banate, Iloilo – 1st Runner Up
Dinagyang Festival of Iloilo City – 2nd Runner Up
For more photos of the previous Aliwan Fiesta, click here or view the slideshow below:
