Despite storm signal, Ati-Atihan street dance draws tourists in Aklan

Despite rain from Storm Signal No. 1 due to Tropical Storm Amang (Mekkhala), local and foreign tourists watched dancers perform in the streets at the Ati-Atihan in Kalibo, Aklan on Saturday.

Several performers wore colorful costumes made of indigenous and recyclable materials, GMA Iloilo's Vangio Robles reported.

Chants of "Viva Señor Santo Niño!" were heard at the venue of Saturday's activities highlighted by a street dance competition featuring 30 tribes.

"You can enjoy yourself, you can mix with the festival, with the dancers. I love Philippines!" said Marithe, a French tourist who went to Kalibo to watch the festivities.

Earlier, the Ati-Atihan's organizers said that while Pope Francis (now in Manila) will not go to Aklan, his Philippine visit will still make the Ati-Atihan – a festival honoring the Santo Niño (Christ Child) – more meaningful to the devotees.  — Joel Locsin/LBG, GMA News