Aliwan Fiesta 2015

This year, I witnessed my first Aliwan experience in Manila. And it was such a colorful and fun event to join in!

Aliwan Fiesta is a melting pot of the best of Philippine festivities from different regions of the country. The event showcases the centuries of different foreign influence, most notably under the Spanish rule and Muslim heritage. Pre-Spanish culture is also a special mention.

Last year’s winner was Lumad Basakanon for the Sinulog Festival of Cebu

With such a colorful and varied history, the Aliwan festivities surely showcase the best of the Philippines I did not get to watch the actual performances of the different groups.  Me and fellow bloggers Marx, Elal and Julius arrived late so we were unable to get the best spots. After grabbing a quick snack, we waited for the parade to arrive at the Star City complex grounds.

As soon as we heard the loud drums beating, we knew the floats were just around the corner. Soon, throngs of excited watchers flocked on the street itself, hoping to get the best view of the passing performers. Large screen LED televisions were set up in strategic points. I watched a couple of performances before I focused on taking snap shots of the enormous floats passing by. I got separated from my friends as they went into the heart of the watchers, hoping to see the program live maybe.

By Marxtermind

I had to leave early since I got work the following day. But not long before I ogled at some of the beautiful Festival Queens in their creative, colorful costumes.  

 

 

2015 WINNERS

Float Design Competition

 

Grand Prize – Sto Nino
Fluvial Procession | Pinabacdao, Samar

2nd prize – SagayanFestival | Datu Piang, Maguindanao

3rd Prize – SakutingFestival | Dolores, Abra

Runners-up – Gameng Ti
Isabela, Panagbenga, Sinulog-IPI, Limbayan, Lakbay Quezon, Mysterious Kutawato
and 3 Republika
 

Festival Dance Competition

 

Champion – Manaragat Festival | Catbalogan City

2nd prize – LumadBasakanon | Sinulog of Cebu

3rd prize – Mayaw-MayawFestival | PInabacdao,Samar

4th prize – Sakuting Festival | Dolores, Abra

5th prize – MeguyayaFestival | Upi, Maguindanao

Runners-up – Kalivungan

Festival of North Cotabato, Candle Festival of Candelaria, Quezon, Sagayan
festival of Datu Piang, Maguindanao, Panagbenga Festival of Baguio and Pandang
Gitab Festival of Oriental Mindoro 

Best Folkloric Performance – Panagbenga

Best Costume – Lumad
Basakanon for the Sinulog of Cebu

Best Music – Lumad
Basakanon for the Sinulog of Cebu

 

 

*Aliwan Fiesta Facebook Page

 

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Aliwan Fiesta
www.aliwanfiesta.com.ph