Overseas Filipinos prepare for Ati-atihan festival

KALIBO, Philippines – Aklanons abroad are celebrating their annual Ati-atihan Festival on January 10, organizers said. The Aklanon Sto. Niňo Association are organizing what his hoped to be the biggest Ati-atihan celebration in Canada at St. Patrick Gym in Vancouver. Ati-atihan celebration are also being prepared by Aklanons in Sacramento, California and in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Association president Jojo Quimpo said the event in Canada will also feature a live band featuring Jojo with Dynamix Band and Ati-atihan Band. The Ati-Atihan, a week-long carnival in Aklan province in the central Philippines, is one of the Philippines’ biggest tourist attractions, with thousands of people in extravagant costumes dancing on the streets to the endless beat of drums. "Cash prizes shall also be awarded to top three best Ati-atihan group costume. First prize will be given $500; second prize $300 and $200 for the third prize. Another $50 each to be given to the three best individual costume," Quimpo said. Criteria for judging were 30 percent originality; 30 percent symbolic (showcase Ati-atihan culture); 30 percent colorful and artistic design and ten percent for the number of participants (at least 20 participants). A $100 prize will be given to the biggest group. The association has elected its new set of officers in September. They are Quimpo as president; Luzviminda Saluta McGillivray, vice president; Ruth Gomez, secretary; Fred Cipriano, treasurer; Roy Motus; assistant secretary-treasurer; Delvin Ibabao, auditor; Glen Sucro, PRO; Victor Castro, business managers, Ted Inamac and Nida Rosero; peace officers; Joel Panado and Boy Sijera, members of the Board of Directors Don Molo, Cholie De Felipe and Bobby Refol. - Jun N. Aguirre, GMANews.TV