Ati-Atihan in Ibajay may not be known or popular
religious festive compared to many. But I must say that it is the most genuine
and humbling way of expressing faith. Viva Sr. Sto. Nino!
Last January 24-25, I had a chance
to celebrate the Annual Ati-Atihan festival in our province, Aklan. Contrary to
what others commonly know, the festive is being celebrated twice in the
province: first is in the province’s
capital, Kalibo, and second is in a town named Ibajay.
Since both my parents came from
Ibajay (or at least near that), I
happen to almost annually celebrate and attend the Ati-Atihan festival (sort of
a “Panata”). Fortunately this year, with God’s grace, I was able to celebrate
it, and shout-out-loud with praise “Viva Sr. Sto. Nino!”