By Ricky Bautista
BASEY, Samar – The historic town of Basey is gearing up to celebrate its 433rd Town Fiesta with the much-anticipated Banig Festival on September 28-29, 2024, in honor of its patron saint, St. Michael the Archangel.
This vibrant festival will spotlight Basey’s rich cultural heritage, especially its renowned banig weaving, through lively street performances and colorful festivities.
The highlight of the event will be a grand street dance competition, featuring contingents of at least 40 performers each, including dancers, props men, and a festival queen. The performances will showcase the artistry and traditions of the town, with participants dressed in elaborate costumes and props that reflect Basey’s history, all set to festive music.
The 2-kilometer parade will culminate at the municipal gymnasium, where the final showdown will take place. The competition will be judged on four main criteria: Choreography & Street Dancing (40%), Concept & Performance (30%), Costumes & Props (20%), and Overall Artistic Impact (10%). Strict penalties will be applied for violations such as stopping during the parade or exceeding the time limit during the final performance.
Special awards will also be given for Best in Street Dance, Best in Costume, and a separate title for the Festival Queen. Safety remains a priority, with the use of flammable or hazardous materials strictly prohibited.
Generous prizes await the top contingents, including Php50,000 for the Champion (courtesy of Tingog), Php40,000 for the 1st Runner-up (sponsored by Cong. Reynolds Michael Tan), and Php30,000 for the 2nd Runner-up (sponsored by MLGU). Two consolation prizes of Php20,000 each will also be awarded, along with special awards sponsored by local organizations.
The Banig Festival is not just a showcase of Basey’s craftsmanship and cultural pride but also a tribute to St. Michael the Archangel, underscoring the community’s shared faith and rich traditions. The festival serves as a highlight of the town’s annual fiesta, which will be celebrated on September 29.
In addition to the Banig Festival, the town’s fiesta week will be packed with various activities, including the Pagbungto Rites, Badlis: Pinta Binaysay (on-the-spot painting contest), DepEd Day/Night, Farmers and Fisherfolks Night, Inter-Barangay Basey Basketball Tournament, 1st Mayor’s Cup Open Rapid Chess Tournament, Bike and Fun Ride Road Race, Agri-Fair, Job Fair, Zumba with Wowie De Guzman, Tropical Body Beach Concert, Search for Guibaysayi 2024, and many more.
The weeklong celebration is expected to draw both locals and visitors, fostering community pride and boosting local tourism.
