Ati’s festival showcases ‘way of life’
ROXAS CITY – A showcase of various indigenous music, dances, traditional games and native delicacies highlighted the 2nd Ati cultural festival last May 21 at Mt. Tag-ao in Barangay Tamulalod, Dumarao, Capiz.
The day-long festival dubbed “Hirinugyaw Ke Meme Ati” also featured Ati-made products like bow and arrow, folk charms and love potions, orchids, and nito hats, bags and coin purses for sale to visitors.
“This festival will be part of our provincial program on tourism and culture to showcase your way of life in the upland,” said Capiz Gov. Victor A. Tanco in Hiligaynon.
“In this way, visitors will come here and buy your products that will be a source of income for your daily needs,” added Tanco who has been recently adjudged by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) as “Culture Friendly LGU Official.”
The award came with the “Culture Friendly LGU” citation both received by Tanco last March in Malacañang.
During the festival, the indigenous people (IP) also prepared a target shooting using the bow and arrow and spear which also gave opportunities to interested visitors to try their hand in using the ati’s traditional weapons for hunting.
Capiz Provincial Tourism Officer Alphonsus Tesoro said that the festival was aimed at preserving the ati’s rich cultural heritage, deepening the appreciation and love of the members of the ati community of their own culture, and raising the consciousness of Capiznons on the role of culture in development.
It was organized by the Tag-ao Minorities Association (TAMIAS) and NCCA in partnership with the Capiz provincial government as part of the National Heritage Month celebration this May. (PIA/A.Lumaque)