Old Siain Port
If you are driving along the Maharlika highway between Plaridel and Gumaca in Quezon Province, there is no way you can miss the sight of
THE BEAUTY OF
- Catanuauan, Quezon
PUBLISHED April 25, 2015
PHOTOGRAPHY and WORDS BY MARIANO SAYNO
Have you ever heard of the Boling-Boling Festival? It’s one of the most popular festivals in Quezon Province, celebrated in the town of Catanauan. It takes place annually on Sunday through Tuesday prior to Ash Wednesday, signaling the beginning of the Lenten Season.
The Boling-Boling Festival is an exciting event, filled with fun and colorful costumes. Participants parade around the town in the most outrageous and creative costumes, called “Karnabals.” These costumes resemble old clowns of carnival and have even been inspired by people that the participants admire. This is a great way to express one’s individuality, letting people creatively imitate and make fun of their favorite characters or people.
During the festival, you will see older women wearing bright, colourful dresses and hats, called “Denonas”. They go from home to home, accompanied by a guitarist and some tambourines. But the fun doesn’t stop there, as you might see some men wandering around the town clad only in their undergarments and putting on mud or grease or charcoal all over their bodies. They’ll try and scare young women and children out of their wits for a few laughs, using their faces painted black or having large fake mustaches and beards drawn on their faces.
During the festival, you will see older women wearing bright, colourful dresses and hats, called “Denonas”. They go from home to home, accompanied by a guitarist and some tambourines. But the fun doesn’t stop there, as you might see some men wandering around the town clad only in their undergarments and putting on mud or grease or charcoal all over their bodies. They’ll try and scare young women and children out of their wits for a few laughs, using their faces painted black or having large fake mustaches and beards drawn on their faces.
This curious practice is actually a local custom that expresses a person’s creative side as well as preparing them for the Lenten season. It may not be possible to determine exactly when or how it began, but one thing’s for certain: the tradition of dressing up and causing a little chaos is alive and well in the hearts and homes of the townspeople.
People flock to the festival to take part in the unique celebrations and revelry. During the show, spectators get to witness talented performers and musical acts take the stage. Amazing dance routines can also be seen in the local town square.
The Boling-Boling Festival is a must-attend for anyone visiting Quezon province this time of year. Join the town in its festivities and discover the joy that comes with expressing yourself and making fun of the people you love. Be part of the ceremonial start of the Lenten season and have a jolly good time!
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