written by Guest Blogger Jocelyn E. Morano on January 20th, 2010
Heavy rains blanketed Caraga Region since January 10 until the day Butuanons celebrated Kahimunan Festival on January 17, nevertheless JC Aquino Avenue was full of spectators lining up sides along JC Aquino Avenue to witness the street dancing parade.
Spectators lined along the street wet and unmindful of the cold to watch and took some pictures every time contingents from Agusan National High School, Libertad National High School, Caraga State University (NORMISIST) Cabadbaran, Libertad Women’s Organization and Butuan City Hall passes by.
The Kahimunan Festival is celebrated every third Sunday of January in celebration of Barangay Libertad fiesta with its patron Señor Sto.Niño – the counterpart of Sinulog Festival in Cebu City.
Kahimunan is a Lumad term which means “gathering”. One of the most prestigious gatherings in Caraga and Butuan City.
The main theme of the ceremonies in the Kahimunan Festival is a combination of the pre-colonial culture and its affiliation with Christianity that reflects Butuan colourful past.
During the street parade participants’ line up the streets to present exotic dances and ceremonies where dancers are all dressed up in colourful costumes as they dance to an indigenous music.
Theatrical performances of ceremonies and dances are highlighted as they decorate the streets with their exotic costumes and native ornaments such as baskets, native wide brim of hats and other accessories.
The City Sports Complex in Libertad was likewise jam packed with people, devotees, local and foreign spectators to witness each contingents dance performance.
Agusan National High School was adjudged this years’ Champion receiving 200 thousand pesos cash prize.
Declared 2nd winner is Butuan City Hall contingents with 150 thousand pesos cash prize while Caraga State University (formerly NORMISIST) in Cabadbaran won 3rd prize with 120 thousand pesos cash prize.
Contingents from Libertad National High School and Libertad Women’s Organization were also accorded 10,000 pesos as consolation prize.
The city government supported Kahimunan Festival in its effort to boost tourist potentials of Butuan City.
photos courtesy from Jocelyn E. Morano
