OBANDO Meaning and
Definition
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Obando refers to a traditional Philippine folk dance and feast that is celebrated in the town of Obando, Bulacan, Philippines. It is a vibrant and colorful fiesta that takes place every May 17 to 19, in honor of the town's patron saints.
The word "Obando" can also refer to the town itself. Located in the province of Bulacan, it is known for its rich cultural heritage, particularly the Obando Fertility Rites. These rituals are performed to seek blessings and fertility from the patron saints, specifically Saint Paschal Baylon, Our Lady of Salambao, and Saint Claire of Assisi.
During the Obando festival, locals and visitors engage in various traditional dances. These dances are believed to increase the chances of conception and grant blessings to married couples who are trying to conceive. Men and women, participating in separate groups, dance together on the streets, carrying baskets of rice, eggs, and fruits, to symbolize bountiful harvests and fertility.
The Obando festival is a significant religious and cultural event that draws both locals and tourists. It showcases the vibrant Philippine culture, emphasizing the importance of family and fertility. The lively dances, vibrant costumes, and festive atmosphere create a memorable experience, attracting people from all walks of life who come to celebrate and witness this unique tradition.
Etymology of OBANDO
The word "obando" is of Spanish origin. It traced back to the Latin verb "obandare", which means "to walk in a religious procession". The Spanish colonizers brought this term to the Philippines during the colonial period. Today, "Obando" specifically refers to a town in Bulacan province, Philippines, known for its annual Fertility Dance Festival or "Sayaw sa Obando", wherein couples perform traditional dances to seek blessings for conception and fertility.
Similar spelling word for OBANDO
