Bonok Bonok , Marajaw Karajaw sa Surigao 2012 !

The Philippines is one of the countries that throw grand carnivals and festivals in the world where celebrations happen every month in different cities and provinces. And  each one of the  festivals has its unique story presenting its culture, tradition and history.

In the southern part of the Philippines, in the  island of Mindanao , unique ethnic celebrations can be witnessed as people of different cultures and origins pay much effort and values  presenting their traditions in grand and colorful ways.

One in particular is the City of Surigao in the province of Surigao del Norte. The progressive city is celebrating its festivity every 9th and 10th day of September giving thanks to their patron San Nicolas de Tolentino. And for the past three decades, the Surigaonons have never failed to showcase the best of their culture and hospitality to the world.
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The celebration is highlighted with the Bonok Bonok, an ethnic dance, originated from the traditional ceremony of the Indigenous People known as Mamanwa during their thanks giving, wedding or anything that is worth celebrating.

To Where it Rooted?

This unique indigenous celebration is adopted by the City of Surigao 28 years ago in giving thanks to the blessings of the patron of Surigao City, San Nicolas de Tolentino.  According to the locals, the festivity started with the prayers of the people for a rain shower during drought and when it was granted by the Great Creator, the people hit the road to celebrate the goodness of the Great Provider.Thus,  the origin of the Bonok Bonok which literally means "Rain Shower" or dancing in the rain.

This colorful and fun festivity is participated by dozens of barangays representing different municipalities of Surigao Province a day before the actual fiesta. Wearing their untiring and beautiful smiles, they welcome the visitors  with a grand street dancing under the scorching heat of the sun. 

And the Fun Never Ends!

Each contingent hit the street in colorful outfits symbolizing the colorful and proud origins of the Surigaonons. The local "Mardi Gras" is accentuated with the ethnic fun beat, making it more lively and authentic. All you can hear and see from the streets are singing, dancing and awed cheers from the public.

Showcasing different interpretations on how San Nicolas de Tolentino helped the devotee through prayers  is the highlight of the night. In this showdown, each contingent presents their extravagant and marvelous sets of props together with amazing upbeat choreography.  

The presentation isn't just  pure dance but with short story shown to a wave of thousands of people.  At the end of the night, winners will be presented with mega cash prizes and trophies.

Marajaw Karajaw in Surigao is the second official festival I have attended in Mindanao and I was humbled to realize that it was the FAITH that keeps the people of Surigao UNITED and ONE with the celebration of their most beloved patron Saint,  Nicolas de Tolentino.

I am proud to be part of this festivity. The whole celebration is worthy of praise. The effort and preparation of the people was just unimaginable. This festivity has shown the world that Mindanao is a colorful, fun, UNIQUE and peaceful place to live in. There is no other place like MINDANAO!

Marajaw Karajaw! 

Viva Senor Nicolas de Tolentino! Viva!

                       

 My sincerest thanks to my  fellow Pinoy Travel Bloggers and friends:

•  Ding Fuellos of Pinoy Explorer for lending me his spare camera; 
• Nathalie Penados of My Wandering Soles for hosting our visit in Surigao; 
• Jeffrey Rilles of Traveling Morion for the wonderful treat @Bastie, and 
• Mr.Ricky Amores, Director of the Festivity, for the free passes in the event area 
• To the local government unit of Surigao City, the Department of Tourism and to all Surigaonons for your warm hospitality.

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