SAN JOSE, Antique (PIA) — The province of Antique celebrates the five decades of Binirayan Festival, showcasing the province’s rich culture, history, and heritage.
Sammy Rubido and Mae Rits D. Ebro of the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO), in a radio program with Philippine Information Agency-Antique aired at 91.7 Radyo Natin FM, highlighted the significance of the celebration as a cultural masterpiece that commemorates the legendary journey of the ten Bornean Datus to Panay Island.
Conceived in 1974 under the leadership of former Antique Governor Evelio B. Javier, the Binirayan Festival has evolved into a vibrant celebration that unites Antiqueños and visitors through a dynamic blend of cultural heritage, tradition, and modernity.
Rubido emphasized the re-enactment of the ten Bornean Datus as an annual activity during the Binirayan Festival and serves as a way for the current generation to witness and ensure they do not forget the history of the ten Datus, where the Binirayan Festival originated.
He also underscored the significance of the province’s celebration as an identity of home and solidarity of the community.
“Amo dya ang identity naton bilang Antiqueño, amo dya ang aton festival kung sa diin gina-ulian kang mga layas nga Antiqueño nga halin sa nanari-sari nga lugar sa sagwa kang probinsya ukon pungsod,” said Rubido.
(This is our identity as Antiqueños. This is our festival where Antiqueños from various places outside the province or country come home to celebrate.)
Meanwhile, Ebro highlighted that a variety of activities have been planned to delight both Antiqueños and visitors attending the festival.
The 50th Binirayan Festival, which began on December 2, 2024, with a dazzling lights and fireworks display, will end on December 21, 2024.
The event also featured a Eucharistic Mass, a torch lighting ceremony,and a parade from Malandog, Hamtic to EBJ Freedom Park where Binirayan opening salvo was held with a fireworks display.
Other activities starting December 16-21 include Lin-ay kang Antique, Bugal kang Antique Awards Night, Search for Outstanding Datu kang Antique, Binirayan Battle of Festivals, Babaylan kag Balangaw event, and Parada ng Lahi, among other activities.
Rubido noted that over the past five decades, the Binirayan Festival has evolved, seamlessly blending its historical roots with innovative celebrations that continue to inspire and unite every Antiqueño, guided by this year’s theme: “Retracing Roots, Celebrating Culture and Greatness”. (AGP/PSM-PIA Antique with reports from YPA/GIP)
