Valentine’s Day is over, but for the Filipinos, the celebrations continue. The country has colorful traditions, especially during the summer months. Every province has its own specialty, its own patron and its own reason for celebration. What is consistent, though, is the fact that these festivals are carried out as a gesture of gratitude.
The Filipinos are prayerful and religious. In the same way that we seek divine help with almost everything, we also take the time to say prayers of thanks for answered prayers. For healing, good harvest, divine guidance, material blessings, protection and many more.
We Filipinos must take part in the cultural celebrations to familiarize ourselves with the local traditions and to spend more celebratory moments with our fellowmen. Here are a few of the events that are still coming up in the second half of the month.
People have started to flock to Baguio City not only to enjoy the cool weather but to take part in the celebration of the Panagbenga. From the beginning of February up until the 26th, one can witness flower parades, street dancing, band competitions and other events that celebrate nature, the arts and the local culture.
In Las Piñas City, this February means the celebration of the 42nd International Bamboo Organ Festival. This year it is happening from the 16th to the 22nd of the month. Drop by the Youth Center of Saint Joseph’s Parish, where you can find the popular Bamboo Organ of Las Piñas City. There will be visiting musicians, as well as local ones who will be performing in a series of concerts. It would be wonderful to bring the whole family to enjoy the sacred music.
Filipinos are creative and many of us love the arts. We have actually devoted the whole month to celebrate the arts. February is National Arts Month, and this year the theme is “Malikhain, Mapagbago, Filipino”. There are various programs, activities and events happening all over the country, all in celebration of the artistic talents and skills of the Filipino. Visit www.ncca.gov.ph for more details about these programs.
On the 23rd of February, colorful things are happening in Makati City, specifically in Glorietta 4, in celebration of Caracol Festival. It has been dubbed as the “Mardi Gras of Makati”. To celebrate our love and gratitude to nature this time, there will be parades dedicated to Mother Earth. Students wearing nature-inspired costumes will be participating in the street parades.
Of course, we will not forget the special celebration happening on the 25th of February, the commemoration of the Edsa People Power Revolution. The current administration has expressed its intention of holding “a simple and quiet” commemoration of its 31st anniversary. The peaceful revolution happened in 1986 when the Marcos dictatorship ended and former President Corazon Aquino rose to power. It is remembered yearly as a historical moment that brought democracy back to our land. This year the theme for the celebration is “A Day of Reflection: Celebration People Power for Nation Building”.
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The public is invited to a special celebration of the poetry written by the beloved mystic Rumi. Special guests include Lourd de Veyra, Tweet Sering, Nerisa del Carmen Guevara, Carlomar Daoana, Rem Tanauan and Marjorie Evasco. The event will be on March 12 at 5 p.m. For more details, e-mail rumipoetrynight@gmail.com or send a message to
0915-197-4773.