BY MA. THERESA LADIAO
AS THE 2025 Kalibo Señor Sto. Niño Ati-Atihan Festival unfolds this January 18 to 19, the streets of Kalibo in Aklan province come alive with unparalleled energy, rich cultural heritage, and festivities that appeal to both merrymakers and pilgrims.
Touted as the “Mother of All Philippine Festivals,” this iconic celebration promises unforgettable experiences that highlight the grandeur, creativity and deep-rooted traditions of the Ati-Atihan.
A Kaleidoscope of Events
The festival’s highlights include the Sinaot Sa Calle, Higante Contest, and the highly anticipated Kalibo Sadsad Ati-Atihan Contest. These spectacles draw thousands of tourists eager to witness the artistry and passion behind every dance step and costume.
Adding to the festivities are unique attractions like the Kalibo Ati-Atihan Product Expo, Color Fun Run with Zumba, and Arte Kalye sa El Porvenir, offering diverse activities for attendees.
Music lovers and culture enthusiasts can revel in events such as the Kapuso Fiesta, Ati-Atihan Fashion Festival, and nightly celebrations at Ati-Atihan Nights, which showcase emerging local talents alongside renowned performers. For sports aficionados, the Circuit Bike Race and Bikers Rally provide thrilling experiences.
Honoring Señor Sto. Niño: The Heart of Ati-Atihan
At its core, the Ati-Atihan Festival is a tribute to Señor Sto. Niño de Kalibo. Pilgrims and devotees partake in deeply spiritual activities, including the pilgrims’ mass, religious procession, paea-pak, and the grand procession. These rituals reflect the community’s unwavering faith and devotion, underscoring the festival’s religious significance.
Tribal Competitions
The tribal competitions are the heartbeat of the Ati-Atihan, with tribes battling for the prestigious titles and cash prizes. This year, the stakes are higher than ever, with a record-breaking P1.1 million grand prize for the Tribal Big category. Defending champions like Black Beauty Boys face fierce challenges from seasoned contenders such as Vikings, Tribu Linabuanon, and Maharlika.
In the Balik Ati category, first-time winners Apo ni Inday aim to prove their worth against formidable opponents like Malipayong Ati and Sinikway nga Ati. Meanwhile, the Tribal Small category sees reigning champions Kabog defending their title against rivals such as Tribu Tampogaling and Tribu Ninolitos. Modern Tribal groups, including the celebrated Royal Scorpio 11-19, promise to elevate the competition with dazzling performances.
Higante Contest
Adding to the spectacle is the Aklan Higante Contest, a showcase of towering, intricately crafted figures that celebrate Aklan’s heritage. This year’s top prize went to Santa Magdalena de Nabas (“Panguna Nabas”), a poignant symbol of faith and resilience. Other standout entries included Señor Sto. Niño de Kalibo, adorned in regal splendor, and Municipal Antique Bell from Buruanga, a nod to the town’s historical legacy.
Fashion Meets Culture
The Ati-Atihan Fashion Festival took the celebration to new heights, transforming the Kalibo Pook jetty port into a stunning runway against the backdrop of the Sibuyan Sea. Featuring 170 designs inspired by indigenous Piña fabric and the vibrant spirit of Kalibo, the show highlighted the talents of renowned designers like Cherry Samuya Veric and Benj Dela Rosa, alongside promising newcomers.
With its dynamic blend of cultural, religious, and modern attractions, the 2025 Kalibo Ati-Atihan Festival offers a unique experience that bridges tradition and innovation. Whether you’re dancing on the streets, marveling at the higantes, or reflecting in solemn devotion, there’s no shortage of ways to connect with the festival’s spirit of joy and unity.
This year’s theme, “Panublion nga Manggad it Akean, Dungog it Bag-ong Henerasyon” (“Heritage of Aklan, Pride of the New Generation”), perfectly encapsulates the essence of this extraordinary celebration./PN
