Higantes Festival: A Celebration of Giants and Gratitude in the Philippines

The Higantes Festival, also known as the Feast of San Clemente, is a vibrant and colorful festival held annually in the town of Angono, Rizal, Philippines. It is a celebration of the town’s patron saint, Saint Clement, and a tribute to the town’s rich cultural heritage. The festival culminates on the last Sunday of November, showcasing a parade of giant papier-mâché puppets called “higantes” that symbolize the town’s resilience and the triumph of good over evil.

History of the Higantes Festival

The origins of the Higantes Festival can be traced back to the Spanish colonial era, when the town of Angono was under the rule of the hacienderos or landlords. The townspeople, oppressed by the harsh rule of the hacienderos, found solace in their religious beliefs and cultural traditions. The Higantes Festival is believed to have started as a form of protest against the hacienderos, with the higantes puppets representing the townspeople’s mockery of their oppressive rulers.

The Higantes Puppets

The higantes puppets are the main highlight of the Higantes Festival. These giant papier-mâché puppets, measuring up to 20 feet tall, are intricately designed and decorated, often depicting mythical creatures, historical figures, or local heroes. The puppets are carried by a team of people and paraded through the streets of Angono, accompanied by lively music and dancing.

Festival Activities

The Higantes Festival is a week-long celebration that features a variety of activities, including:

• Higantes Parade: The highlight of the festival is the parade of higantes puppets, which takes place on the last Sunday of November. The parade winds its way through the streets of Angono, with the higantes puppets dancing and swaying to the rhythm of the music.
• Street Dancing Competition: The street dancing competition is another major event of the festival. Groups of dancers from different barangays (villages) compete for the title of best street dancer, showcasing their skills and creativity in traditional and modern Filipino dances.
• Art and Cultural Exhibits: Various art and cultural exhibits are held throughout the festival, showcasing the rich artistic heritage of Angono. These exhibits feature paintings, sculptures, handicrafts, and other traditional art forms.
• Religious Ceremonies: The Higantes Festival is also a religious celebration, with several religious ceremonies held throughout the week. These ceremonies include masses, processions, and other devotional activities in honor of Saint Clement.
• Food Festival: The Higantes Festival is a great opportunity to try some of the local delicacies of Angono. A food festival is held during the week, featuring a variety of food stalls selling traditional Filipino dishes and snacks.

Significance of the Higantes Festival

The Higantes Festival is more than just a celebration; it is a symbol of the town’s resilience, cultural heritage, and religious faith. The festival has evolved over the years, but it has retained its core values and traditions. The Higantes Festival is a reminder of the importance of community, culture, and faith in the face of adversity.