A Glimpse of the beginning of Bobon Agta Festival

The religious fervor that began in years past formally had given birth to the Agta Festivity that enkindled faith. Annually, from early of 1980s, Bobon-anons join hands in anticipation of great the revelry starting off with the 9-day novena masses which culminates with the Pontifical Mass, a fitting attribution to the Divine Maker.

Carried through the years, since the adoption of the name Agta Festival, immediately ensuing the Pontifical Mass, a “Sinulog” alongside with tribal dance is performed by devout Catholics. These are two simultaneous religious activities in the Marian Park symbolic of fervent faith of Sto. Nino devotees.

In another observance of a religious tradition usually associated with the Agta Festival, a “Sakay-sakay” or fluvial procession of the feted Black Sto. Nino is carried by a “Balsa Mayor” or lead boat of sailing boats in harmony along the stretch of “Sag-od” river. This extended procession is believed to invoke the Black Image’s favor to bless fisher folks in the area. Indeed, these three practices enhance the town’s religiosity and contribute to the community’s rich religious culture and history.

Indeed, Agta Festival, so enigmatic an effect that is identified with the miraculous Black Image is a way of life for Bobon-anons.

Today, Agta Festival is a representation of collective faith of Bobon-anons. It is a large part, if not the only symbol of collective faith of the community. It is has become an intangible cultural heritage of the town.