KALIBO, Aklan – Giant papier-mâché figures are not the only ones that will compete in one of the sub-events of the annual Ati-Atihan Festival here.
Next year’s Higante Contest will also be a battle of sorts among festivals across Aklan province.
The provincial government, through the Provincial Tourism Office, invited local governments to participate.
Themed “Showcase of LGU Festival,” the contest will highlight the festivals of participating municipalities.
Expected to join are the following municipal governments, featuring their respective festivals:
* Kalibo, Malinao, Ibajay, Batan, Altavas, and Makato – Ati-Atihan
* Banga – Saguibin Festival
* Malay – Fiesta de Obreros
* Nabas – Bariw Festival
* Tangalan – Bugna it Tangalan
* Numancia – Lechon Parade
* New Washington – Pacto de Sangre
* Lezo – Bayangan Festival
* Balete – Enchanting Balete
* Buruanga – Panagat Festival
* Libacao – Kaliugyon Festival
* Madalag – Tinuom ni Aewag Festival
The Higantes parade on Jan. 17 will start at 1 p.m. from Mabini Street to Pastrana Park. A throng of government employees and officials and locals are expected to take part.
Each participating town will get a subsidy of P30,000 for the larger-than-life figures.
The champion will receive a cash prize of P45,000, while the second and third placers will take home P40,000 and P35,000 cash, respectively.
The fourth and fifth placers will be given P30,000 and P25,000, respectively, while a consolation prize of P15,000 will be given to each non-winning entry.
Participants will be judged based on artistry and design, creativity, relevance to the theme, and audience impact and appeal.
Higantes in the 2018 edition were named Uray Hilway (Nabas), Felimon Mananagat (New Washington), Matugahong Ati (Balete), Enteng Mamumunit (Tangalan), and Ati Magdadaet (Banga).
In the past the contest also had Nars nga Ati (Tangalan), Datu Manduyog ang Musikero (Banga), Model nga Ati (Kalibo), Politiko nga Ati (Nabas), Princess Merida (Malinao), Red Riding Hood (Altavas), and Tatagnong Ati (Numancia). (With Aklan Forum Journal/PN)
