Renowned for its rich and diverse cultural landscape, the Philippines is a vibrant fabric woven from many historical influences, traditional practices, and religious beliefs.
Each region of the country boasts its unique customs and traditions, reflecting the varied cultural influences that have shaped the archipelago over centuries.
Festivals across various provinces showcase the country’s rich traditions that vary from one place to another. In some provinces, dazzling parades are filled with performers adorned in vibrant costumes to portray mythological figures; in other areas, the celebrations draw heavily from the heritage of Indigenous communities, highlighting their customs, spiritual practices, and traditions.
Additionally, many fiestas serve as heartfelt expressions of gratitude to patron saints, where people gather in unison to honor their beliefs with processions, prayers, and festive banquets, creating a sense of community and shared purpose.
With a wide array of festivals to celebrate across regions like Sinulog in Cebu, Panagbenga in Baguio, and Kadayawan in Davao, one festival stood out.
A secular celebration initiated by the Municipality of Angono in Rizal to express gratitude to their Patron Saint Clement, the Parade of Giants, commonly known as the Higantes Festival is held annually on a Sunday before the town feast on November 23.
Also known as the Art Capital of the Philippines, the Municipality of Angono together with their LGU and their craftsmen produced a mache of giants. Each giant is meticulously crafted and dressed in vivid colors, symbolizing a range of important figures and personas that hold significant meaning within the community.
The execution of these festivals clearly involves collaborative efforts from various sectors of society, including stakeholders, residents, and local government units. People work together to plan and celebrate the richness of Filipino tradition.
With full support from the government, enacted in 1992, Republic Act No. 7356, also known as the Act Creating the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), this aims to coordinate and provide technical and financial assistance for cultural events and related activities.
These activities include cultural festivals, competitions, lectures, and seminars designed to encourage Filipinos to explore various cultural aspects, such as folklore, dance, music, and crafts.
