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The Philippines, as a tropical country, has lots of events lined up at the start of the summer season. From international music and art festivals to historical and religious festivals, the country has something to offer for everyone.
In a blink of an eye, we’re already a quarter into 2019! Time’s gone by so quickly with all the exciting things and events happening left and right. March, after all, is almost synonymous to the start of summer in this country. It’s also known as the Women’s Month, given that the International Women’s Day falls on March 8.
A lot has been celebrated this month and although March might almost be half-way done, it’s still got a lot to offer. Read on for a list of March events this year!
Malasimbo Music & Art Festival (March 1 – March 2)
Now on its ninth year, the Malasimbo Music & Art Festival still hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down. This year, people all over the world flocked to the hills and beaches of Puerto Galera for two straight nights of music, parties, culture, and art.
The Malasimbo Music & Art Festival keeps close to its roots by advocating and promoting the culture of the islands and its people, and local and international artists. This year, works of Leeroy New, Agnes Hohana and many other talented artists are included in the open door museum area of the festival.
DJ’s kept the party going at different parts of the festival. They even had the Silent Disco where party-goers dance with their colorful headphones on, literally dancing to music only they can hear. The best part is, they promote taking care of the environment and the culture of Mindoro by putting part of their proceeds to these causes.
Fringe (February 7 – March 3)
Fringe is a month-long multi-arts festival held all over Manila. This festival has a wide array of events to offer, from performances to plays, concerts and gallery exhibits, it’s truly a feast for the senses.
Fringe events are unafraid and brave in tackling different issues through art. Mental health was given an avenue for open discussion and understanding through the one-woman play by Duncan Mcmillan entitled “Every Brilliant Thing.” What’s even better was they had members of the Philippine Psychiatric Association present in the theater in case anyone has questions or concerns. Exploration of American influence and Filipino culture’s owning and shaping of it was also done in Burlesque PH’s “Bodabil”
Wanderland (March 9 – March 10)
Wanderland is a yearly arts and music festival created for the enjoyment of good music and good company. This year, it was held again at the Filinvest City Events Grounds wherein dozens of international and local indie bands performed for hundreds of people part of the Wanderland Community.
This year, some of the acts they invited were The Kooks, Two Door Cinema Club and Gabrielle Aplin from the UK, Clair from the US and Adoy from South Korea. Each band providing a unique sound to contribute to this multifaceted event. Of course, homegrown bands and acts held their own with Clara Benin, Autotelic, Sandwich and UNIQUE as part of the ensemble.
- Moriones Festival (Holy Week)
Marinduque, the island determined to the be the center and heart of the Philippines, holds one of the oldest festivals in the country observed every Holy Week – the Moriones Festival.
Similar to the other festivals in the country, the Moriones Festival traces its roots to Catholic traditions and stories, specifically the one with Longinus, the half-blind Roman soldier who stabbed Jesus’ side with a lance. The story tells that when the blood of Jesus fell into his eye, Longinus gained his sight and subsequently converted to Christianity.
This story is retold in the festival with colorful costumes, solemn processions and expos for foreigners and tourists alike to enjoy what this island offers.
Folk Healing Festival
Siquijor is an island with a reputation that either attracts curious travelers or repels the superstitious. Whatever it may be, it’s a loss if you skip the island of fire in your journey. Its natural beauty is still preserved, with its large trees and beautiful running waters.
If you visit, try to make it to their Folk Healing Festival. It is held during the Holy Week and celebrated by folk healers and herbalists by gathering different ingredients from the seas, mountains, and nature for the festival.
Throughout the week, the ingredients are cooked in a cauldron while healing sessions and cultural events are held.
Although some of the events and festivals have passed, there are still lots of events to enjoy this month! And of course, there’s always next year. So, craving for music, art, and culture – and maybe even some magic?- you know where to go.
Sources: Love Pilipinas, Primer PH
