Antique: Binirayan Festival

Summary

The Binan Festival in Antika celebrates the province's rich cultural history and bountiful land, commemorating the landing of the Datus in 1973. The festival blends artistry, tradition, and unity, as locals prepare the town with vibrant floats, historical displays, and lively market stalls. Highlights include dance performances, the Malay AI competition, and the Bugal Kang Antika Awards. Rooted in Malay ancestry, the event honors the town's origins, offering a mix of cultural performances, including music, pageantry, and fireworks, creating an atmosphere of jubilation and community spirit.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Binan Festival is a province-wide celebration in Antika, held every last week of April, marking its 32nd edition this year.
• 😀 Local fishermen temporarily swap their fishing tools for hammers to help prepare the town for the festival.
• 😀 Children are excited by the displays of artistry and the preparation of floats for the grand event.
• 😀 Historical sites, such as the Ana's Main Capital building and the Freedom Park, are spruced up for the celebration.
• 😀 The festival is an opportunity to showcase local products, with businesses thriving as crowds buy everything from ice cream to souvenirs.
• 😀 Binan Festival celebrates the abundance of Antika's produce and the richness of its culture, with a focus on honoring local traditions.
• 😀 The festival's origins trace back to 1973 and were inspired by a sense of reverence toward Antika’s ancestry and history.
• 😀 The festival commemorates a historical tale where Borneo was ruled by an oppressive leader, and the people of Antika sought freedom by fleeing to Bandog Beach.
• 😀 Antika's historical settlers, the Ati, greeted the Datus and their people with goodwill, and the two cultures forged a strong bond marked by respect and unity.
• 😀 The Binan Festival is celebrated through performances, including graceful dances, music, and beauty pageants, creating a lively and spirited atmosphere.
• 😀 The event culminates in fireworks, a fire dance, and the recognition of outstanding locals through the Bugal Kang Antika Awards, celebrating cultural pride and achievements.

Q & A

What is the Binan Festival and when is it celebrated?

The Binan Festival is a provincewide fiesta celebrated every last week of April in Antika. It commemorates the richness of the land's produce and the culture of the region.

What are some of the activities leading up to the festival?

Before the festival, locals prepare by sprucing up the town, with fishermen using hammers instead of their usual tools like fish nets and paddles. Floats are given final touches, historical sites are cleaned, and business thrives with exhibits showcasing local products.

What is the historical origin of the Binan Festival?

The Binan Festival was first celebrated in 1973 and was conceived by former Antika Governor AEL Habier and writer-artist Lorna Rila Monilia. It arose from a deep reverence for Antika's ancestry, particularly a historical event involving Borneo's oppressive leadership.

What historical event does the festival commemorate?

The festival traces back to a time when Borneo was ruled by a despotic leader named Maatuna. The local Datus, unable to tolerate this rule, secretly plotted a revolt. One of them, So Mel, fled with his people to Antika, where they peacefully settled and were greeted by the Ati Anka's original settlers.

How did the Datus' arrival in Antika affect the local Ati tribe?

The Datus and their people were met with respect and goodwill by the Ati tribe, led by their chief Mariko. The Ati tribe rewarded the Datus' kindness by offering a golden headgear called salakot and a necklace.

What cultural significance does the Binan Festival have?

The festival celebrates the unity and harmonious relationship between the Malay and Ati peoples. It highlights the intertwined traditions, customs, and values that form the foundation of Antika's cultural identity.

What are some of the food items featured at the festival?

Locally grown produce such as sweet potato, cava, peanuts, rice cakes, and bananas are featured at the festival. These items are part of a celebration of Antika's agricultural abundance.

How are the youth involved in the festival?

Young Antikas participate in the festival by performing graceful dances, singing, and showcasing their musical talents. They also compete in the Malay AI competition, which is a fusion of various cultural traditions.

What is the Malay AI competition and how is it conducted?

The Malay AI competition is a cultural event where different towns create their own interpretation of Malay traditions. Participants dance and perform to the rhythm of the drum, with high spirits and energy. The competition fosters a lively, competitive atmosphere.

What are the Bugal Kang Antika Awards?

The Bugal Kang Antika Awards recognize outstanding Antikas for their various achievements. The awards honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the community in various fields.