2015 Ati-Atihan festival preparations underway

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

Preparations are already underway for the 2015 celebration of Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan festival.

Volunteers of Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi) begun to discuss plans, activities and assignments for the “Mother of All Philippine Festivals” with just six months left.

Since year 2011, Kasafi is the official organizer of the Ati-Atihan festival by way of a Memorandum of Agreement with the local government of Kalibo represented by Mayor William Lachica.

Albert Menez, who chairs Kasafi, said they will be holding planning meetings with festival committees, sponsors, church leaders, community partners and stakeholders to ensure the success of the Ati-Atihan festival.

As the clock ticks from now, the preparations of organizers and volunteers will be getting into high gear through the next six months.

Menez said there is plenty of work to be done, as Kalibo gears up for the Ati-Atihan, and more time in securing sponsorships, planning and introducing festival events in 2015. 

“Volunteers have been working incredibly hard for the past Ati-Atihan festivals. It is all about panaad ag debosyon kay Senor Sto. Nino of Kasafi volunteers,” he said.  

The annual festival is a significant tourist draw and has strong impact on economy for Aklan, which not only means business for local entrepreneurs, but also for the town of Kalibo and adjoining towns.

Earlier, GMA Kapuso network has signified interest to renew partnerships with Kasafi and the municipal government of Kalibo.

The Ati-Atihan festival next year is scheduled for January 9 through January 18.  It is highlighted by religious procession, street dancing, holy mass and novena in honor of the feast of Senor Sto. Nino de Kalibo.