Bikolnon tradition shines in ‘Pastores’

By Rhaydz B. Barcia

The oldest Bicolano tradition, Pastores, took center stage once again as it showcased the re-enactment of the birth of Jesus Christ through song and dance. The spectacle, set to the tune of “Pastores-A-Belen,” preceded the eagerly anticipated Misa de Gallo or Simbang Gabi.

The Pastores tradition began with the dramatic entrance of the kagharong, a re-enactment of Saint Joseph and the Virgin Mary’s journey from Egypt to Bethlehem. The poignant portrayal unfolded as they sought refuge in a cave on a cold night, where, amidst farm animals, the Christ Child was born in a manger.

Known locally as rokyaw, the Pastores performers embody the highest respect and love for Emmanuel in the Bicolano culture. This colorful and vibrant celebration of the yuletide season is epitomized by the Kagharong, creatively depicting the challenges faced by Saint Joseph and the Virgin Mary on Christmas Eve.

Herbie Aguas, DOT Bicol director, expressed the commitment to preserving this unique culture and tradition in collaboration with the provincial government of Albay and Legazpi City. Aguas emphasized the importance of passing on the Pastores tradition to the younger generation.

PERFORMERS at Pastores Bicol show off their dancing prowess during the street dance competition.

This year’s Pastores competition, hosted in Legazpi City, featured 12 contingents from various provinces, each contributing to the rich tapestry of the Bicolano Christmas celebration. The participating groups, with performances ranging from Sarong Banggi Dance Troupe to Parau Pastores, showcased the diversity of the tradition.

The Pastores performances, adhering to strict guidelines, included a traditional Pastores-A-Belen song dance in Bicol, Spanish, or a combination of the two languages. The performers, aged 14 to 30, displayed a mix of traditional and modern choreography within an 8-minute time limit.

The Mexican-influenced dance Pastores a Belen, introduced by the Spaniards and still performed across the Philippines, recalls the journey of shepherds to Bethlehem. The Bicol version uniquely features girls in vibrant skirts and boys with shawls, reflecting a fusion of Mexican and Bicolano influences.

The highlight of this year’s Bicol Pastores, held at Albay Astrodome, featured the Sarong Banggi Dance Troupe as the grand prize winner, receiving accolades for street dance, costume, and musicality. Oas Pastores and Tanghal Kulturang CamNorteno Talisay Pastores secured the first and second runner-up positions, respectively.

With its roots deeply embedded in Bicolano heritage, the Pastores celebration continues to captivate audiences, ensuring the endurance of this cherished tradition for generations to come.