Gathering of the best of the best as they say. 24 contingents from across the nation gathered together to showcase their creativity, ingenuity, craftsmanship and culture, all aiming to grab the grand prize. Still, most of them are already happy and considered themselves as winners just to be able to go to Manila for the first time and enjoy its sights, sounds and food.

Floats and dancers crowd the streets of Quirino grand stand 12nn last May 3 to prepare for the parade going to CCP. Being a first timer in the event, I was not able to take pictures during the day time for I was planning to do it during the parade. Unfortunately, heavy rains poured down that caused a great delay in the procession. Night time falls when I discovered I have to be in the Aliw theater if I want to take a glimpse, photos and videos of their special performances. Nevertheless, I am still proud to be able to take part in this event. No great pictures to show, but have a great story to tell.

MBC (Manila Broadcasting Company) sponsored the event. Going on its 3rd year, I believe that this event will make a benchmark and will continue to grow in years to come. Giving the people a glimpse of our rich culture, traditions, unity and harmony in its simpliest form.

Hungry, tired and wet (from the heavy rains), people still crowded the streets of CCP to witness this event. As the dancers arrived in the area, anticipation can be felt in the air as each group made their way in the center stage. Aliwan festival has three main events: The Reyna ng Aliwan, Street Dancing and Float competition.

Aliwan 2008 List of participants are as follows:

• Alikaraw Festival of Hilongos, Leyte
• Pamulinawen Festival of laoag City, Ilocos
• Pangisdaan Festival of Navotas
• Kalilintad Festival of Mamasapano, Maguindanao
• Gakit Festival of Angadanan, Isabela
• Meguyaya Festival of Upi, Shariff Kabunsuan
• Buyogan Festival of Abuyog, Leyte
• Boling Boling Festival of Quezon
• Shariff Kabunsuan Festival of Cotabato
• Bakhawan Festival of Sibugay, Zamboanga
• Lumad Basakanon, Sinulog Festival of Cebu City
• Carmen Sinulog Festival of Carmen, Cebu
• Desposoryo Festival of Hagonoy Bulacan
• Penafrancia Voyadores and Pilgrims Festival of Naga City
• Dinagyang Festival of Iloilo City
• Pakalog Festival of Santolan Pasig
• Panagbenga Festival of Baguio City
• Kang ‘Gelal festival of Vizcaya, Cotabato
• Lang-ay Festival of Mountain Province
• Pintaflores Festival of San Carlos City, Negros Occidental
• Lami-lamihan Festival of Lamihan City, Basilan
• Kadayawan Festival of Davao City
• Saad Festival of Leganes, Iloilo
• Buklod Festival of Parang Shariff Kabunsuan

After each group performs, their colorful and artistic floats, and beautiful Reynas follow them to be presented to the judges. The Aliwan festival has become one of the most awaited event of the year. It has been a tradition of many, as family and friends gather together to enjoy the music, colorful costumes and dances these groups has in store.

Winners of the Float competition:
Grand prize: Pamulinawen Festival of laoag City, Ilocos
Second Prize: Boling Boling Festival of Catanauan, Quezon
Third Prize: Sinulog Festival of Cebu City

Winners of the Street Dancing competition:
Grand prize: Lumad Basakanon, Sinulog Festival of Cebu City
Second Prize: Dinagyang Festival of Iloilo City
Third Prize: Carmen Sinulog Festival of Carmen, Cebu

To all participants, congratulations! Till next year!

More Aliwan Festival Photos HERE.