ATI CONTEST
20 tribes dominated the heat of Iloilo City's main streets. The City's own version of Kalibo's Ati-atihan, was hailed one of the best tourism events in the country. The competition spurred the spectators to cheer like it was their first time to witness a GRAND festival.
Tribu Ilonganon's (JMNHS), with thir awe-filled performance stunned the crowd, thus making them the champion for this year's Dinagyang-Ati contest. Tribu Paghidaet (LNHS), though aided by an adrenalin pumping choreography and heat smashing costumes came in second.
KASADYAHAN
7 tribes from the province of Iloilo joined Kasadyahan, an apetizer for the much awaited Ati Contest. The theme of Kasadyahan, is based on their town's history and culture. Santa Barbara's Kahilwayan flooded the streets with their dances of revolution and victory, the music which scoped Kahilyawan pushed them to be Kasadyahan's grand champion. Cabatuan's Tinuom, a distant departure from the town's prehispanic tradition the 'Sinulog'(male chicken), which impressed the viewers with their feathery dances came in second.
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One of the most remarkable churches in the Philippines is Alimodian's Church, believed to be one of the most beautiful churches in the 18th century. It was constructed in 1787 through forced labor. Four earthquakes shook this temple but the 1948 earthquake severely damaged its belfry and facade. Today, one might see the church as a grand example of neoclassic architecture, the exterior might not look much, but you will be flashed with awe as you enter the church.
The interior is elegantly decorated, a pleasant treat that will surely make your heart sing. On one side is a small portal towards the simple yet appealing baptistery chapel. One might notice the well restored brick ceiling of this room.
The Ruins of the church convent may lead you to a small garden enclosed within a peaceful wall of antiquity, the ruins add up an interestingly historic ambiance to the atmosphere. An aviary may interest you while a friendly convent welcomes your interesting queries.
It was said that the name 'Maasin' was derived from a salty spring in the northern part of Iloilo. The people described the taste of the spring water as 'Ma-asin' or salty, hence, the town was called Maasin.
Maasin rests in a valley guarded by low lying mountains and tropical hills. The town is a rural landscape that is never busy. It is a tranquil place filled with the abundance of nature and culture.
Amongst the numerous tourist spots in the country, the bed of Maasin's histoy lies in tranquil place that mirrors the town's atmosphere. With unique salty springs, and a calm freshwater brook, Paet Springs is a place for relaxation and meditation. The silent atmosphere is filled with soft music as sung by bamboos and birds. A grotto lies on a rocky cliff, a perfect ambiance for the religious.
