ANTIQUE —The annual Binirayan Festival officially opened yesterday, December 1, signaling the start of a month-long celebration of Antiqueño culture, history, and creativity.
The festival began with the opening of lights and the bustling night market at Evelio B. Javier Freedom Park, where all 18 municipalities set up Pasundayag booths to showcase local products, attractions, and tourism destinations. Visitors can enjoy daily demonstrations of traditional crafts, such as native mat and clay pot making from Libertad and Sibalom towns, reflecting the province’s rich artisan heritage.
“The Binirayan Festival will be a celebration of the municipalities, showcasing the people’s rich culture and history,” said Celestino Dalumpines IV, consultant of the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office.
The month-long festivities will feature a variety of events, including a film festival by Antiqueño filmmakers on December 13 and 14 at Robinsons Place San Jose, and the reenactment of the first Malay settlement in Barangay Malandog, Hamtic, scheduled for December 15. Characters portraying the 10 Bornean datus will arrive aboard traditional balangay boats, greeted with rituals, dance dramas, and the lighting of the First Malayan Settlement Torch. The presentation and sashing of Miss Binirayan and Datu of Antique will also take place on the same day.
Culminating activities include the Malay-Ati tribe competition on December 20 and the grand Karsadyahan on December 29, a night of music, merrymaking, and unity that brings the entire province together. This year’s festival carries the theme: “Live the Legacy: Antiqueño Spirit Shines in Binirayan Festival 2025,” honoring the late Governor Evelio B. Javier, founder of the festival.
Beyond cultural showcases, the festival promotes local entrepreneurship and tourism through the Produkto Antiqueño and Produkto Turismo competitions. Pasundayag booths provide a lively platform for municipalities to display innovative designs, unique crafts, and traditional food, encouraging friendly rivalry and boosting economic opportunities. Last year, Caluya won first place with its island-themed booth, while Valderrama and San Remigio took second and third places, respectively.
“Every December, Antique comes alive as we honor our beginnings,” said festival organizers. “From the Fluvial Parade and Historical Reenactment to the Malay-Ati Competition, Lin-ay kang Antique, and Karsadyahan, this is our legacy—our story, our celebration.”
The festival runs until December 29, with activities along Villavert Street between the Antique Provincial Tourism Building and St. Joseph Cathedral, offering both locals and visitors a vibrant, immersive experience of Antiqueño culture./PN
