The Philippines is popular for its festivals, such as the Maskara festival, Ati-atihan, and the Sinulog festival. The Barotuan Ati-Atihan Festival is similar to the famous Ati-Atihan festival in Aklan. This is because the ancestors of most of the inhabitants of El Nido came from Aklan.
The Ati-Atihan
The Aklanons hold this event every year in January to honor the Holy Child (Infant Jesus). “Ati-Atihan” means “to be like Ati or Aetas”. Historians say that the Aetas were the dominant inhabitants of the Philippine Islands. Some say that the Aetas also settled for a time on the island of Panay, where you can find Aklan. The playing of tribal music and street dancing are common features of many festivals in the country, including the Ati-atihan. Those who join the festival wear indigenous costumes and parade through the streets. When you get an El Nido tour package in January, be sure to stay in town to see your version of the Ati-atihan.
According to some, this festival started when 10 Datus (Malay chieftains) fled Borneo and headed for the shores of the Philippines. The Ati, an ancient tribe on Panay Island, gave the chiefs a place to settle. When a famine struck the land, the Ati starved and descended into the settlement of the Datus. The chiefs offered food to the Atis. In gratitude, the Ati sang and danced for the Datus. This gesture became a tradition that evolved into the famous festival.
Barotuan and the Aklan migrants
Barotuan is a humble agricultural town that can be reached via an hour-long motorcycle ride from downtown El Nido. Every third Sunday in January, locals and tourists head to Barotuan to experience the Barotuan Festival. Many visitors book El Nido tour packages during this time to witness the festival. The Barotuan Festival is also related to the Sinulog Festival in Cebu. The locals narrate that Aklanons migrated to Palawan using a boat called the Balangay. This was not small enough for the narrow channels of some islands that they had to pass through. Realizing this, the migrants built smaller boats called “Barotu”. The Barotu successfully transported the Aklanon to the northeastern point of Palawan. Thereafter, the locals called the docking area and nearby town Barotuan.
Like the Ati-atihan festivals in Aklan and Cebu, the Barotuan Festival enlivens the city with processions of rosaries and masses. With the irresistible rhythmic drum beats during the parade, it is common to see people dancing in the streets. The parade lasts for a week and takes place regardless of the weather.
Experience the way Filipinos celebrate festivals. Book an El Nido tour package in January and take part in the Barotuan Festival.