The Higantes Festival in Angono, Rizal, is a vibrant and joyous celebration held annually to express gratitude to the town’s patron, Saint Clement.
This secular festival, marked by a grand parade of giant papier-mâché puppets called ‘higantes,’ takes place on the Sunday before the town feast on November 23.
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The Parade of Giants
Walking through Angono during the Higantes Festival feels like stepping into a world where folklore comes alive. The streets burst with color as hundreds of towering higantes—some over three meters tall—move to the rhythm of the marching bands. Each barangay (village) participates by creating a unique higante, often representing local legends, myths, or even modern images of officials. This parade isn’t just a visual feast; it’s a walk through the town’s collective memory and aspirations.
The origin of the higantes is a tapestry woven with many different ideas and local legends. One popular tale speaks of Karias Tangkad, a tall hacienda caretaker during the Spanish colonial period, whose imposing figure and harsh demeanor inspired the creation of these giants as a form of protest and mockery. Another theory, suggested by Professor Saguinsin, asserts that the tradition of giant papier-mâché figures began after World War II, initiated by the renowned artist Carlos ‘Botong’ Francisco to revive and revitalize the town’s festivities.
Interestingly, the art of creating these giant figures may have been learned from Spanish friars, blending local ingenuity with colonial influences. Regardless of the exact origin, the higantes have evolved to symbolize the town’s resilience and creativity.
From PNA Gov
Evolution of the Higantes
Over the years, the higantes have transformed from simple figures of protest into complex representations of Angono’s cultural heritage and aspirations. Modern higantes often include characters from folklore, local heroes, and even smaller giants known as ‘higantitos.’ These figures symbolize the people’s desire to excel and bring pride to their community.
The making of a higante is a labor of love and skill, supported by the local government to ensure the tradition thrives. Crafting these giants takes about a month, with each puppet meticulously designed and constructed to reflect the spirit of the barangay it represents.
During the festival, the streets of Angono become a living canvas of tradition and joy. One particularly charming custom is the ‘basaan,’ where spectators are sprinkled with water for good fortune and blessings. This is accompanied by the ‘parehadores,’ a lively marching band, and young girls in colorful costumes and wooden slippers, holding ‘sagwan’ (wooden boat paddles), adding a rhythmic beat to the festivities.
The higantes themselves are more than just parade puppets; they are powerful symbols of cultural heritage and artistic significance. Angono, home to National Artists like Carlos ‘Botong’ Francisco in painting and Maestro Lucio San Pedro in music, takes immense pride in this artistic tradition. The higantes stand as a testament to the town’s rich history and its people’s enduring spirit.
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Cultural Impact
The Higantes Festival is an integral part of Angono’s cultural identity. Despite the varying origin stories—whether it’s about mocking despicable landlords, enacting revenge against a caretaker, or simply making the post-war fiestas more festive—the festival unites the community in celebration and pride. The higantes symbolize the people’s dreams and aspirations, their desire to contribute to the town’s growth and development, and their deep-rooted connection to their cultural heritage.
Experiencing the Higantes Festival firsthand is a unique journey into the heart of Angono, where history, art, and community spirit come together in a spectacular display of human creativity and joy. It’s not just a festival; it’s a celebration of the enduring legacy and aspirations of a town that cherishes its past while confidently striding into the future.
From Municipality of Angono FB
More Details
1. What is the Higantes Festival?
The Higantes Festival is a lively and joyful celebration held every year in Angono, Rizal, to honor Saint Clement, the town’s patron saint. The highlight of the festival is a parade featuring giant papier-mâché puppets called ‘higantes.’
2. When is the Higantes Festival celebrated?
The festival is celebrated on the Sunday before the town feast, which is on November 23rd. This means the parade and main events usually take place in the third week of November.
3. What are higantes?
Higantes are giant papier-mâché puppets, often over three meters tall. Each one is created by different barangays (villages) and usually represents local legends, myths, or even modern figures.
4. What can I expect to see at the festival?
During the Higantes Festival, you’ll see a grand parade with colorful and towering higantes, lively marching bands, and people in vibrant costumes. There’s also a fun tradition called ‘basaan,’ where spectators are sprinkled with water for good luck.
5. How did the tradition of the higantes start?
The origin of the higantes has different stories. One popular tale says they were inspired by a tall, strict caretaker from the Spanish colonial period. Another idea is that the tradition began after World War II, encouraged by artist Carlos ‘Botong’ Francisco to bring life back to the town’s celebrations.
