KALIBO, Aklan – With just two weeks left, the preparations for the Kalibo Señor Sto. Niño Ati-Atihan Festival and the Feast of Señor Sto. Niño de Kalibo are in full swing.
The Ati-Atihan in Kalibo, the “Mother of All Philippine Festivals”, is certainly not in short of events since the celebrations began all way back in 1960s.
From eclectic and fascinating events to religious ceremonies, the Kalibo celebrations offer something for everyone.
Take a look at Binibini ng Kalibo Ati-Atihan pageant on January 10, Ati-Atihan Fashion Festival on January 11 and Color Fun Run with Zumba on January 11 to 12.
The best line-ups of artists and live performances also headline the Ati-Atihan Nights in Kalibo Magsaysay Park from January 13 to 19.
It couldn’t get any better with the Traffic Jam and Bikers Rally on January 11 to 12, Circuit Bike Race (January 11 to 12), Balik Patik (January 14), Sinaot sa Calle it mga Magueang Ati ag Inueang Ati on January 14 to 15, and Negorapada on January 15.
Also, the Higante Parade and Kapuso Fiesta on January 16, plus, the Kalibo Ati-Atihan Product Expo on January 13 to 20, and Arte Kalye sa El Porvenir on January 13 to 18 will showcase artistic creativity and culture diversity.
Barangay chapel visitations of Sto. Niño and vigils in Tinigaw, Mobo, Bakhaw Norte, Tigayon, Estancia, Bakhaw Sur, and Linabuan Norte will also start on January 10 until January 17.
The traditional Paea-pak will take place at Kalibo Cathedral from January 10 to 19, while the devotional novena prayers and masses will happen from January 10 to 18.
Dawn penitential procession of caros and devotees will take place on January 18, the Bisperas it Kapiestahan ni Sr. Sto. Niño de Kalibo.
The stand-out Kalibo Sadsad Ati-Atihan contest, Hornada, Blessing of Tribes and Pilgrims are also held on January 18, all adding to the atmosphere of merrymaking.
On January 19, Pilgrims Mass, grand procession and closing liturgical rites, set on Kaadlawan it Kapiestahan ni Sr. Sto. Niño de Kalibo, will culminate the week-long celebration.
2,500 security for Ati-Atihan fest
Major Frensy Andrade, Kalibo acting police chief, said they are aiming for zero major incidents and the peaceful celebration of Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival.
At least 2,500 personnel will be deployed for the celebrations.
For his part, Lieutenant Colonel Belshazzar Villanoche of Kalibo Ati-Atihan Site Task Group said police personnel, force multipliers and other law enforcement agencies are ready for the festivities to ensure the festival’s success.
Traffic rerouting plan will also be implemented for the parades, religious procession, festival merrymaking, and street dancing.
Security force from the Police Regional Office 6 and municipal police stations from Aklan will augment the festival security for maximum deployment.
Outer border controls in Nabas and Altavas as well as inner border controls along the provincial highways before entering the town of Kalibo are established by the composite team of Philippine Army and uniformed police personnel.
Andrade also urged the public to be vigilant, cooperate and follow the security protocols during the Ati-Atihan celebration./PN
