The longest singkaban in the Philippines was the highlight of the recent Singkaban Fiesta 2008 at SM City Marilao. Exquisitely crafted by Francisco “Mang Kiko” Eligio, almost 600 feet of the singkaban arc was displayed in front of the mall to highlight Bulacan’s leading celebration symbol. A singkaban gazebo displayed inside the mall was a perfect background for the photo ops.
Mang Kiko, who is now 84 years old, is one of the few remaining craftsmen of this delicate bamboo art. He was given a special citation during the opening ceremonies for his contribution to the culture and tradition of the province, including the design and execution of the longest bamboo arc in the Philippines.
Singkaban, which is the acronym for Sining at Kalinangan ng Bulacan, after all, was named after the singkaban or bamboo arc normally seen in town fiestas. The festivities, considered the mother of all fiestas in the province, are traditionally held in celebration of the Philipine republic’s First Congress on Sept. 15, 1898 at historic Barasoain Church in Malolos.
Sipag, Husay at Talino, Tatak ng Bagong Bulakenyo was the theme of this year’s festival. It highlighted the Bulakenyo’s talent and creativity through exhibits, beauty contests, parades, concerts, and performances.
Apart from the longest singkaban, other activities included the Bagong Bulakenyo Photo Exhibit, Bingo ng Kasaysayan, and the Ginoo and Mutya ng Deped pre-pageant competition. These culminated in the Singkaban Fiesta fireworks Display and the street parade, Singakaban Fiesta 2008’s culminating activity.