It was a familiar experience—the drums reverberating at the venue, there were lights, lanterns, neon costumes, torches, effulgent props, and energetic dancers.
I was in Chiayi, a county in southwestern Taiwan, early this year for the touring lantern festival celebrated annually in the small yet progressive state. It was a visually impressive fest not to mention an amazing experience for both locals and foreign tourists. Imagine seeing thousands of lanterns and installations brightening up an entire 50-hectare complex, dazzling performances showcasing the colorful culture of participants (including Japan, Philippines, and Indonesia), and visual displays that leave any spectator in awe.
On the eve of Nov. 1, I had a similar experience in Anilao, a 4th class municipality in the province of Iloilo, when a group of entertainment and lifestyle journalists were invited to the town to witness the 14th Banaag Festival.
Although small-scale, the showcase was equally impressive especially that it’s so close to our hearts as it’s a reflection of our own culture.
Community spirit shone brightest as eight tribes representing the different districts of Anilao set the night ablaze with their own riveting play of lights and awe-inspiring cultural presentations.
“Each presentation was reflective of their way of life,” Mayor Lee Ann Debuque told Manila Standard in an interview.
“Performers here are students, 12 years old and above. And I must say, each year, they are getting better. Their performances improved a lot especially this year,” she added.
The young mayor of Anilao was glad that I mentioned the lantern festival in Taiwan, which is celebrated on the 15th day of the first month in the Chinese lunar calendar. She said they are trying get inspirations from different festivals because they wanted to make the Banaag Festival a truly must-see festival in the country. And it is safe to say that this fest that coincides with the municipality’s foundation anniversary is definitely headed in that direction.
“As you can see, based on the theme of the performances, the tribes or the districts participating in the festival have awareness on the relevant issues in our society and environment. But most importantly, their performances are telling stories, not just merely an interplay of lights and colors,” the Debuque said.
The young leader further added that the annual fest is a platform for Anilao to see the comprehension of the citizens of each district on relevant issues, as well as to educate the masses on certain issues that the province faces “be it climate change or environmental conservation.”
What has been hailed as the Philippines’ Best Municipal Festival put Iloilo on the spotlight once more as Banaag Festival 2018 culminated in the much-awaited dance drama competition which showcased the spectacular and fiery performances of the eight competing tribes. By the end of the night, tribe Hubon Bulalakaw from District 1 bagged the year’s festival championship with their glowing and compelling dance interpretation entitled “Celebrating Anilao’s Conservation Efforts in the Time of Climate Change.”
An annual festivity highlighting the rich culture and history of the town of Anilao, Banaag Festival heralded a new era for Iloilo tourism after winning the Grand Prize for Best Tourism Event (Festival Category, Municipal Level) at the recently held 19th Pearl Awards of the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines-Department of Tourism (ATOP-DOT).
“We are honored and proud that what started as a small community festival 14 years ago has gained national recognition and has now become a sought-after tourist attraction in Iloilo,” shared Iloilo 4th District Representative Ferjenel “Dok Ferj” Biron, who led the symbolic lighting of the Bang Festival 2018 torch along with Mayor Debuque, Vice Mayor Matet Debuque, among other town officials.
A firm believer and staunch supporter of Banaag Festival since its inception in 2004, Congressman Biron vows to continue his infrastructure projects for better access to Anilao and other towns to further boost Iloilo tourism. Now that Bang Festival is known as the Philippines’ Best Municipal Festival, Congressman Biron is confident that his comprehensive tourism plans for Iloilo will be in place to accommodate the expected influx of tourists in the coming years.
“We have already completed several concreting and road widening projects, and travel to these parts of the province has definitely improved compared to the days when we only had narrow dirt roads. We are set to meet the needs of the people coming here. Iloilo will be ready for more tourists not just in Anilao but in other areas of the province as well,” assured Congressman Biron.