‘Bambanti’ isn’t just the Ilocano word for scarecrow

Apart from being the Ilocano word for scarecrow, Bambanti is also the name of the award-winning annual festival of Isabela Province. Of course it makes sense that the colorful Bambanti is the mascot and icon of the Bambanti Festival, which begins today January 22 and end on Saturday, January 27. 

With events like are street dances, showdown competitions, street performances, a search for Bambanti Festival King and Queen, and the most important – at least in our book – the Isabela’s Master Kusinero Cooking Contest, Bambanti Festival aims to highlight the province’s rich cultural heritage, lifestyle, products, and food.

A scene from last year's Bambanti Festival

Taking home the Best Festival Practices and Performance Aliw Awards from 2015-2017, it’s safe to say that the local government of Isabela has been doing a good job.

From last year’s “Isabela Para sa Daigdig”, the theme for this year's Bambanti Festival is “Isabela Kong Mahal”, depicting Isabeleños’ ardent love for the love of their province. — LA, GMA News