VP Sara: Celebrate Ati-Atihan festival with gratitude, hope

Vice President Sara Duterte on Sunday called on the public to celebrate the Ati-Atihan festival in Kalibo, Aklan with gratitude and hope for a prosperous future.

In her statement, Duterte said the Ati-Atihan festival is more than the lively music and colorful attire, as it exhibits Filipinos' faith, resilience, and unity.

“Sa paggunita natin sa inyong mayamang kultura at tradisyon, nawa'y baunin nating lahat ang diwa ng inyong selebrasyon: ang walang humpay na pasasalamat at ang pag-asa para sa mga masaganang bukas,” Duterte said.

(As we commemorate your rich culture and traditions, may we all carry with us the spirit of your celebration: unceasing gratitude and hope for a prosperous future.)

Ati-Atihan celebrates the people of Aklan with indigenous origins, eventually honoring the Infant Jesus, Señor Santo Niño, according to the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines.

Today, the Ati-Atihan is observed as a festival dedicated to the Child Jesus.

The term “Ati-Atihan” means “merry-making like the Ati,” referring to becoming like the aboriginal natives who are considered the first inhabitants of Aklan and the entire Western Visayas region, the agency said.

This year, the Philippine National Police deployed around 2,980 personnel to secure the Ati-Atihan Festival. —KG, GMA Integrated News