Manila Standard | 2019
Agricultural Traditions
Calamba’s culture is deeply intertwined with its agricultural heritage. The city’s fertile lands, nourished by Laguna de Bay, have made farming a way of life for generations.
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Pag-aani (Harvesting) Rituals:
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Harvesting is a significant event in Calamba, marked by rituals that express gratitude to the land and divine blessings. Farmers often hold a small feast called pamamanhikan to celebrate a bountiful harvest.
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During the harvest season, the community comes together to help each other, a practice known as bayanihan. This spirit of cooperation strengthens social bonds and ensures that no one is left behind.
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Pagtatanim (Planting) Traditions:
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Planting season is also celebrated with rituals to ensure a successful crop. Farmers perform pag-aalay (offerings) to the spirits of the land, often involving prayers, food, and small tokens of gratitude.
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The use of traditional farming tools, such as the araro (plow) and suyod (harrow), is still prevalent in some areas, preserving the authenticity of Calamba’s agricultural practices.
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Wikimedia Commons
Wikimedia Commons
Faith and Devotion: Calamba’s Religious Traditions
Calamba’s religious practices are a cornerstone of its cultural identity. The city’s predominantly Catholic population observes a variety of rituals and traditions that reflect their deep faith and devotion.
Celebrated every June 24, the Feast of St. John the Baptist is one of Calamba’s most important religious events. The festivities include a grand procession, a fluvial parade on Laguna de Bay, and the traditional basaan (water dousing), where people splash water on each other as a symbol of cleansing and renewal.
During Holy Week, many households in Calamba observe the Pabasa ng Pasyon, a traditional practice where the Passion of Christ is chanted in verse. This ritual often lasts for hours and is accompanied by prayers and offerings.
In May, Calamba celebrates Flores de Mayo, a month-long festival honoring the Virgin Mary. The highlight is the Santacruzan, a religious procession featuring young women dressed as biblical figures and saints.
Bayanihan Spirit: The Heart of Calamba’s Community
Calamba’s culture is deeply rooted in strong family ties and a sense of community. The bayanihan spirit, or communal unity, is a defining characteristic of the city’s way of life.
