Voluntary face-mask policy for Ati-atihan

KALIBO, Aklan- Mayor Juris Bautista-Sucro’s executive order implementing the voluntary use of face masks in public places will cover the famous Ati-atihan Festival in January 23, the first full face-to-face revelry since the COVID-19 pandemic hit the Philippines in 2020.

Bautista-Sucro said the town will hold its Ati-atihan opening salvo on October 8, but there will be a book launch on October 1 of “The Blessing of God” by Fr. Justy More.

It tackles the history of Aklan province’s Sto. Nino devotion with a focus on the Spanish missionaries and evangelization from 1568-1794. A forum on September 15 will explore the various Ati-atihan traditions.

Kalibo Vice Mayor Cynthia Dela Cruz said that town council passed a resolution in July to jumpstart preparations for the the festival.

Mark Sy, consultant to the barangay affairs of the local government, also announced a council would be created to coordinate activities.(Rappler)