Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Festival:The Cultural Heritage of the Atis

The Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-atihan Festival recalls the history of the ten Bornean Datus the most ancient recorded history in pre-Spanish times in the whole Philippines (The Maragtas). The festival has been imitated everywhere in the Philippines. It has attracted tourist from every part of the globe. The cultural tradition survived for centuries has achieved national even world reknowned because of its inherent character. The character consists of goodwill so that there are practically no unpleasantness despite the tumult; reverence so that in the midst of merry making we do not forget our submission to the Holy Child; creativity so that despite very limited resources we manage to create costumes from seeds nuts shells raw fibers leaves thin cans in a wonder to outsiders. Everyone participates not just as spectators but as dancers in common joy. It is a ballet where everyone has a part.