REHIYON-REHIYON FESTIVAL: A CELEBRATION OF HOSPITALITY AND SOLIDARITY

There are 17 regions in the Philippines, and each of them has their own festival or celebration. Here in Marikina City, we have this one festival that celebrates all the Festivals around the Philippines, and that is our very own "Rehiyon-Rehiyon Festival." From Bangus Festival to Sinulog Festival to Ati-Atihan Festival to Kadayawan Festival to Panagbenga Festival, the festive spirit of Marikenyos, from every part of the Philippines, are celebrated.

This festival celebrates the migrants who have chosen to live here in Marikina City, and eventually contribute to its progress. Every December 8, this vibrant and energetic festival is commemorated, coinciding with the anniversary of Marikina's cityhood. On that day, President Ramos signed Republic Act 8223 to transform Marikina from a municipality to a well-developed city in Metro Manila.

According to Marcy in his speech during Rehiyon-Rehiyon Festival 2019, "We in Marikina, an urbanized city, 70 percent of our residents are already migrants -- from other provinces or regions. We celebrate life together as a community in Marikina.”

He added that when people are asked of Marikenyos, they said that they are known for their values of discipline, well-behaved, and family-oriented, and everyone including the migrants He also said that everyone who study, work, or run their business in the city is considered to be Marikenyos. But the center of all this is the love for the City of Marikina. To see ourselves as a part of this city, and to be involved with the people here, and in its story

My grandparents were also migrants that have found their home here in Marikina City. My grandfather is from Catanduanes and my grandmother is from La Union, and they settled here in Marikina with their children and later us. It warms my heart to know that there is a festival that showcases hospitality and solidarity. The value that binds them despite coming from different backgrounds and places is their love for Marikina and their families. 

Reference:

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1088252