Batangas City in Southern Luzon is once again in full festive spirit as it prepares to culminate the month-long Sublian Festival on July 23—a cherished celebration rooted in the Batangueños’ deep devotion to their patron, Mahal na Poong Sto. Niño.
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Sublian, which originates from the prayer dance Subli, is one of the few festivals in the country that are derived from and inspired by a centuries-old local folk tradition. Originally a ritual offering, the dance has become a symbol of Batangueño identity and resilience.
Formally established as a festival in 1988 under the leadership of the late City Mayor Eduardo Dimacuha, in celebration of Batangas City’s founding anniversary, the Sublian Festival aimed to preserve the age-old practice of Talumpok Subli—a traditional dance indigenous to the city—by keeping it relevant in the present and for future generations.
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Since its inception, the festival has evolved into one of the most vibrant cultural events in the Southern Tagalog region.
Over time, the Sublian Festival has blossomed into a broader celebration of Batangueño heritage, incorporating cherished traditions like the harana (serenades) and Lupakan, Awitan at Sayawan—where communities gather to enjoy music, dance, and share nilupak, a local delicacy made from bananas and sweet potatoes.
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Now in its 38th year, the Sublian Festival continues to shine as a reflection of Batangas City’s unity and ongoing progress. This year’s theme, “Masaya ang Sama-sama, Tuloy-tuloy na Pag-unlad,” celebrates the creativity and spirit of Batangueños from over 105 barangays, grouped into 10 contingents competing in the highly anticipated street and court dance competitions.
At the heart of the celebration remains the Subli—a sacred dance marked by rhythmic drumming, chanting, and graceful movements that blend poetry, music, and devotion. More than a cultural tradition, it endures as a living heritage and a powerful symbol of Batangueños’ heritage, faith, and solidarity.
Although the festivities began on June 26, the month-long Sublian Festival 2025 continues with several remaining activities, culminating officially on July 23 and concluding with a job fair on July 26.
July 21
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1:00 PM – Traditional Subli Dance Competition (Batangas City Convention Center)
July 22
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7:30 AM – Pagpupugay sa Watawat at Pag-aalay ng Bulaklak
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8:00 AM – Panalangin Para sa Pagkakaisa, Kapayapaan, at Misa ng Pasasalamat (People’s Quadrangle)
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9:30 AM – Harana at Putungan | Ms. Foundation Day (People’s Quadrangle)
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11: AM – Ala Eh Tikme Season 2 Cooking Competition (Plaza Mabini)
*Free Rabies Vaccination for Dogs and Cats (Plaza Mabini)
*Distribution of Assorted Vegetable Seeds (Plaza Mabini)
July 23
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7:30 AM – Street Dance and Float Parade Competitions
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1:00 PM – Court Dance Competition (Batangas City Sports Coliseum)
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7:00 PM – Street Party (In Front of City Hall)
July 26
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Job Fair (Batangas City Sports Coliseum)
In a message forwarded to Good News Pilipinas, Sublian Festival Director Peter John Caringal invites everyone to join the festivities in Batangas City and witness how Batanguenos celebrate and preserve their local tradition.
“Iniimbitahan po namin kayo na bumisita dito sa Lungsod ng Batangas at saksihan kung paanong sama-sama namin pinapahalagahan at ipe-preserba ang tradisyon at kulturang Batangueño sa paraang masaya, inklusibo, at higit sa lahat, disiplinado (We invite you to visit Batangas City and witness how we collectively value and preserve Batangueño tradition and culture in a joyful, inclusive, and above all, disciplined way),” he said.
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