GAKIT FLUVIAL FESTIVAL

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The Municipality of Angadanan in Isabela recently hosted its annual Gakit Festival on March 5-7, 2024, a vibrant celebration that brought together culture, creativity, and community spirit.

The Gakit Festival in Angadanan, Isabela holds immense cultural significance for the local Gaddang community. The “Gakit,” or traditional raft made of bamboo and ropes, was a crucial mode of transportation that connected the different parts of the town divided by the Cagayan River. The festival celebrates the historical importance of the Gakit, which was used for commerce, trade, and leisure, and served as a symbol of unity, cooperation, strength, and endurance for the people. The festival also highlights the sustainable use of locally available resources, such as bamboo and “kawagan,” in constructing the Gakit.

Additionally, the festival provides an opportunity for the community to come together, participate in cultural activities, and foster a stronger sense of identity and pride. By preserving and showcasing the traditions associated with the Gakit, the festival contributes to the overall cultural heritage and development of the Angadanan region.

IMMUNU RITUAL

Prior to building the "Gakit," a religious ritual called "IMMUNU" is carried out to ensure the safety of those who will use the boat as they travel across the powerful Cagayan River. The owner of the "Gakit" and a prayer leader called "mengal" bring a large chicken and a native black pig to the construction site. The "mengal" recites a sacred hymn before the chicken's neck is cut swiftly and cleanly with a sharp bolo. The headless chicken is allowed to run freely, and its blood is splattered in all directions. The chicken's blood is also applied to the forehead of the "Gakit" owner, and the "mengal" recites a prayer where the chicken stiffens. The "mengal" takes the chicken home, and prepares and cooks it for his meal, but the "Gakit" owner is forbidden from partaking in the chicken. Only after this religious ceremony is completed can the actual construction of the "Gakit" begin.

TRADITIONAL WEDDING

In traditional Ilocano marriage customs, the union is not just between the groom and bride but involves both families and extended relatives. Before marriage, pamamanhikan is held. Pamamanhikan is a traditional Filipino custom where the groom’s family formally asks for the bride’s hand in marriage. This custom often involves a visit to the bride’s family home and where conditions like dowry and wedding arrangements are decided upon. Dowry typically consisted of a carabao and farmland for the couple to start their life together, with the groom’s family covering the wedding expenses.

Sponsors, known as ninongs and ninangs, ceremonially expanded both families, while the wedding feast was determined by the number of animals slaughtered to feed everyone attending, resembling a barangay fiesta. The burden of wedding expenses mostly fell on the groom, making marriage among Ilocano men costly. To raise funds, a gala-gala dance was held, where relatives and well-wishers pinned money on the couple, with the proceeds going to the new couple.

Atang; Traditional Food Offering

There are various reasons why people prepare an Atang. One of the most common reasons is to defend against evil spirits. It is also prepared as an offering for deceased loved ones, and when a family member is ill. The reason for preparing an Atang may vary depending on one’s beliefs. As a child, I remember that whenever we had a delicious meal, we would offer an Atang, along with alcohol and cigarettes.

DEATH RITUALS, CEREMONIES, & TRADITIONS

Panag-atong (Burning of wood) – To announce the death of a family member, a piece of atong wood is lit outside the deceased’s home. The fire remains burning until after the burial.

At the time of a burial, a rooster is killed by piercing its neck when the coffin is brought out of the house. After that, the rooster is allowed to roam in the yard. This tradition is believed to ensure that the spirit of the rooster accompanies the spirit of the deceased in the afterlife.

Ag “Gulgul”

In Ilocano culture, there is a tradition that takes place after the burial of a family member. During this tradition, individuals wash their heads, typically in a river or sea. It is believed that this practice helps family members cope with the sorrow of their loss and also purifies them of any illness or misfortune that may be associated with the death of their loved one.

As pangilàglagìp kadagitì kararwà (commemorating the souls), church masses and novenas are offered at certain occasions like the dead’s birth and death anniversaries.

Pagpapatpatay ti Baboy: This is a tradition of sacrificing a pig during important ceremonies or celebrations, such as weddings, birthdays, or fiestas. The sacrificial pig is prepared and cooked to provide food for the guests and to symbolize abundance, prosperity, and generosity.

BAYANIHAN SPIRIT

The spirit of bayanihan, or communal unity and cooperation, may be evident in Angadanan, with neighbors helping each other out in times of need, such as during house construction or agricultural work.

SIMBANG GABI

Simbang Gabi is a significant tradition that people observe to praise and worship God during the Christmas period. It is a way for churchgoers to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and prepare themselves spiritually for Christmas. Participating in Simbang Gabi also helps to build a sense of camaraderie within the community. This tradition is a time for everyone to rejoice in the arrival of Jesus, regardless of gender, age, or social status.

These customs and traditions serve as a means of connecting generations, reinforcing familial ties, and fostering a sense of belonging among community members. Furthermore, they contribute to the spiritual well-being and social cohesion within Angadanan.

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