‘Kabkaban’ targets more visitors

CEBU, Philippines - At least 10 contingents from different schools showcased their dance moves and colorful costumes during yesterday’s “Kabkaban Festival” in Carcar City.

Now on its 12th year, the festival is one of the highlights of the celebration of the feast of St. Catherine de Alexandria.   Carcar Mayor Nicepuro Apura said the goal for holding the annual festival is “to educate the young people” on heritage and the city’s past through the traditional dances and costumes.

“We especially chose our high school students to participate so they will learn their history. This will also give them a venue to showcase their talents,” Apura said.

Several of those who have participated in the festival reportedly ended as scholars in universities because of their skills in dancing.

This year’s contingents were from Can-asujan National High School, Carcar Central National Night High School, Gelacio C. Babao Senior Memorial National High School, Maximino Noel Memorial National High School, Liburon National High School, Ocaña National High School, Tuyom National High School, Roberto E. Sato Memorial National High School, Valencia National Vocational High School and Perrelos National High School.

The city subsidized at least P130,000 per contingent, which Apura said was “all worth it”.

“Wa ni nato gi- contest, para happy ang tanan,” he said, adding, that he hopes the festival would eventually become a must-see for tourists in the coming years.

The name of the festival is derived from “kabankaban”, the local name of study ferns that are abundant in the city.

“We are now in the right track. We are progressive. But magtinabangay gihapon ta sa paglihok, daghan ug layo pa tag maabtan as usa ka syudad,” Apura said as message to his constituents. 

He also invited investors to the city, guaranteeing them of peace and order and a vantage location from the south.

Apart from the festival, the city also hosted a  motocross yesterday and will continue the celebration today with the Miss Carcar City finals. (FREEMAN)