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The Batbat Festivity




     Binatbatan Festival traces its roots to the abel weaving industry of Vigan which has been in existence even before the Spaniards came to colonize the Philippines. ”Binatbatan” is the process of beating cotton pods to remove the seeds for Abel weaving. Which locals interpreted as an occupational dance with the use of two sticks called ”batbat”. Binabatan street dance is one of the main attractions during the week-long celebrations. It evolved from this and majestically transformed today as the most colorful and significant festival to Bigueños as it focuses on the remembrance of Apo Lakay's deliverance as well as promoting the local fabric, Abel Iloco.

     The present COVID-19 pandemic has impacted all of us. Nonetheless, it is heartening to realize that we can still celebrate despite the conditions. We can't enjoy it as we used to because of the high risk of being infected by the virus and the severe health protocols that go along with it. We have less engagement with one another due to our confined mobility and social distance, giving us a different feeling throughout this event. Nonetheless, the thought of enjoying it brings us joy.

      Overall, we should be grateful that we have the opportunity to celebrate it. Since fiestas are still important because they can reduce stress and other illnesses induced by overworking, they should be celebrated.

PICTURE:

https://www.flickr.com/photos/blrapadas/13922777558 

Comments

  1. Marinette16 May 2022 at 19:19

    Yes, I completely agree with you! Despite knowing that the virus is not entirely gone even if our City is low risk, we cannot help thinking that there is still a chance we can get infected. But other than this, we should also enjoy this opportunity that was given to us to fully enjoy the Binatbatan festival. Of course, we should still observe the health protocols in order to not put the city in risk again. This blog was very informative and motivational, keep up the good work!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Sharinel22 May 2022 at 20:53

    Hi there! Binatbatan Festival was celebrated in the New Normal and it’s really amazing, despite of what we are facing up to these days. It’s celebration was conducted and it is really a great accomplishment, coz it was celebrated in a nice and fabulous way. And I love the way you post it, coz it reminds us Bigueños of how great we are in the midst of pandemic.

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