SAN JOSE, Antique (PIA) — The Municipality of Tobias Fornier, formerly Dao town, is again set to celebrate its rich heritage and traditions through Sambayang Festival 2025, taking place from February 20 to 22, 2025.
With the theme “Padayon sa Pagtib-ong kang Pinasahi nga Kultura kag Tradisyon nga Daonhon” (Upholding the promotion of the Daonhon unique culture and tradition), this year’s festival promises a vibrant and meaningful showcase of local talent, beauty, and unity.
Municipal information officer Reggie Labnao said that in the previous years, the festival was named Panaet Tarambayaw Sambayang Festival referring to Panaet, an annual offering ritual of the maarams (shaman) of old to appease the anitos and the spirits, and to ask for continued blessings throughout the year and Tarambayaw also a local term which means to work together or to cooperate.
The ritual includes offerings of the best portions of the products of their land and labor, with incantations and merry making.
Meanwhile, Sambayang is coined from the word Samba and Dagyang to mean honoring the spirits of their ancestors with merrymaking.
Labnao said that the festival will officially kick off on Feb. 14, with the highly anticipated “sashing” ceremony for the candidates of Lin-ay kang Tobias Fornier 2025.
This event will also launch the yearly Food Festival, where local delicacies and specialties will be featured, giving visitors a taste of authentic Daonhon cuisine.
On Feb. 20, the grand opening celebration will begin with a Grand Parade at 5:00 p.m. and the Opening Program in the evening.
One of the most significant highlights is the much-awaited return of the Search for Lin-ay kang Tobias Fornier, a prestigious beauty pageant that has not been held for over 12 years, with the last edition held in 2013.
This revival aims to find the most exceptional young woman to represent the town in various competitions, embodying intelligence, grace, and cultural awareness.
The first night (Feb. 21) will feature the candidates’ production number, talent showcase, and festival attire competition, while the coronation night will be on Feb. 22 with various contest categories to wit: production number, swimsuit competition, preliminary interview, and evening gown competition.
“Beyond the pageant, the Sambayang Festival will feature cultural performances, booths, and exhibits that highlight Tobias Fornier’s traditions, products, and thriving local industries,” said Labnao.
Local residents and tourists alike are invited to witness this year’s Sambayang Festival. (AGP/PS/PIA Antique/ Tobias Fornier LGU)
