Walking the same streets where some of our nation’s artistic giants left their footprints on is definitely an enriching experience.

Angono, a first class municipality in the province of Rizal, is known for its strength and vibrant culture. Its rich artistic history can be traced back to 3000 BC, and proof of which is the discovery of the Angono Petroglyphs, the oldest known work of art in the Philippines. Angono is also home to some of the country’s highly celebrated artists like composer and musician Lucio San Pedro and muralist Carlos “Botong” Francisco, who are both National Artists.

Apart from exemplifying artistic talent, the townspeople definitely know how BIG a deal it is to be dubbed as the Art Capital of the Philippines. Angonians are well known for making larger-than-life caricatures for one of the most delightful fiestas in the Philippines, the “Higantes Festival.”

Check out this video to experience this exciting celebration:

BIG Preparations

Preparation starts as early as September, where students with their drums and lyres can be heard practicing their parade piece. The vibrant color and sound uplifts the whole celebration, encouraging onlookers to move and groove with the beat.

It’s really bigger than you think! Some of these faces might even be familiar. Can you guess who this giant is with his trademark checkered polo and that hands-under-the-chin pose?

That’s right! That’s no other than President Rodrigo Duterte.

Nothing can stop a fan from taking a selfie with this giant sporting the uniform of his favorite basketball team! And don’t you think his smile says it all?

Gilbert Onidad 16, has been carrying the Higantes for five years, “Tradisyonal po ito kaya ginagawa ko at panata na rin po. Gusto ko pong makapag tapos ng pag-aaral para makatulong sa magulang.”

Regardless of the tiring day, they still manage to smile believing that they have contributed something for their beloved hometown.

BIG Environmental Concern

As Mayor Gerardo Calderon strictly imposes “Zero Basura”, the Higantes are made with recycled paper. This emphasizes the importance of creative recycling and consequently, conserving the environment.

BIG Art Platforms

Angonians continue to attract art lovers not only from across the country but as well as globally. One of the highlights of this festival was an exhibit launch, which promotes the use art for intercultural dialogue and understanding. Figurative artist and art leader Nemesio “Nemi” R Miranda Jr. explains, “Last year, 2015, our Philippine embassy, together with the Malaysian embassy, helped us coordinate with Malaysian artists. We entered to an agreement and applied to the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, that we are wiling to implement that cultural bilateral. We did the initiative to visit Malaysia and get to know the artists. And from that we are able to come up with what we call ‘ArtDialogo’.

“In this intercultural exhibit, we showcase both Filipino and Malaysian artists.” Nemiranda also stresses that, “This is the start. We are trying to put Angono in the global map as far as art is concerned.”

Looking back, I realized that the best way to truly appreciate Filipino art is by immersing oneself in the company of innovative individuals and in a place where artistry remains a priority. Walking the streets of Angono and taking part in their Higantes festival provide a different perspective and a beautiful reminder that continuing one’s traditions is key to solidifying one’s identity.

For a more enriching cultural experience, the town of Angono should definitely be high up in your list of must-travel destinations.