Wahig Festival in Sierra Bullones
Carine M. Asutilla, ABS-CBN News Central Visayas

The humble town of Sierra Bullones in Bohol wowed visitors in their first-ever Wahig Sierra Bullones Festival, in honor of Birhen dela Immaculada Concepcion.

Father Tommi Ugpo, their parish priest organized the Wahig Festival. He said that the festival is the people's way of showing gratitude to Birhen dela Immaculada Concepcion for giving them the Wahig River, their source of water for their rice fields.

Four schools presented their dances depicting Sierra Bullones' culture, history, and their main livelihood, which is farming.

Ducita High School presented with more than 500 dancers. They showed the history of Sierra Bullones and their simple way of living while Sierra Bullones Central Elementary School showed their undying faith for Birhen dela Immaculada Concepcion.

Bugsok National High School demonstrated a farmer's life made easier by the Wahig River. They credit their bountiful harvest to the abundant supply of water from the river.

Sierra Bullones Technical Vocational High School illustrated the river's contribution to the town's beautiful fully grown trees, growth of flowers, and vegetables.

Since it was the town's first festival and it was not held as a competition, there were no guidelines for participants. So each of the performances were not time limited, each lasted for more than 20 minutes.

All the basics in street dancing and showdown were there such as colorful costumes, functional props, different dance steps and formations.

Mayor Alfredo Gamalo of Sierra Bullones said that they will make Wahig Festival as an annual event. Next year, Gamalo said that it will be a competition and more contingents are expected to perform.

Sierra Bullones is among the interior towns of Bohol. You can reach Sierra Bullones through vans-for-hire or buses. It is two hours away from Tagbilaran City.