CAPIZ — The town of Jamindan came alive with color and excitement as residents and visitors gathered for the inaugural Gab-i sang Maragtas on January 19, at the Jamindan Gymnasium.
The cultural presentation marked a major highlight of the Capiztahan festivities, showcasing the rich heritage, history, and traditions of the Capisnon people.
Gab-i sang Maragtas was organized by the Provincial Government of Capiz under the leadership of Governor Fredeni H. Castro, whose administration has prioritized cultural preservation and revitalization. The event was spearheaded by the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO), headed by Alphonsus D. Tesoro.
Provincial Information Officer and concurrent Provincial Human Resource Management Office (PHRMO) head Atty. Luvim D. Amores delivered a message on behalf of Governor Castro, emphasizing the provincial government’s commitment to promoting Capisnon culture and the arts. He noted that these efforts have contributed to Capiz’s recognition as home to one of the country’s best cultural festivals.
Atty. Amores also underscored the importance of unity and cultural pride, sharing stories that highlighted the province’s rich and diverse traditions.
The event drew a large crowd, including local officials and community leaders. Jamindan Mayor Donnah T. Valdemar expressed gratitude for the staging of the cultural event, citing its role in strengthening community spirit and pride among Jamindanganons.
Families and friends of all ages filled the venue, creating an atmosphere of celebration and shared identity.
The Gab-i sang Maragtas served as the culminating activity of the Binuligay Festival, which ran from January 10 to 20, 2026. Rooted in the spirit of bayanihan, or community cooperation in the Jamindanganon dialect, the festival aimed to unite the community through a series of activities celebrating gratitude and shared traditions.
Festival highlights included street dancing competitions featuring vibrant costumes and rhythmic performances, a fun run open to participants of all ages, and a food festival showcasing Capiz’s culinary specialties such as fresh seafood, traditional delicacies, and local favorites like bikilhon and suman.
The culminating Gab-i sang Maragtas featured captivating performances by Jamindanganon and other Capisnon artists, blending local music, traditional dance, and dynamic artistry that reinforced community pride and solidarity.
The series of events not only entertained festivalgoers but also strengthened community bonds, ensuring that the culture and time-honored traditions of Jamindan and the wider Capiz province continue to be celebrated and passed on to future generations./PN
