The Timeless Art of Singkaban: Celebrating a Family Legacy in Bulacan

The Philippines boasts a rich tradition of folk art, with each region offering unique expressions of creativity. In the province of Bulacan, particularly in towns like Malolos and Hagonoy, lies the art of Singkaban - the transformation of humble bamboo into magnificent arches.

The Eligio family of Hagonoy, Bulacan has preserved a unique traditional art form: the creation of bamboo arches known as singkaban. This enduring practice, passed down through generations, embodies not only the artistic skills of the family but also the rich cultural heritage of their community.

What is Singkaban?

Singkaban, literally translating to "decorated bamboo arch," isn't just an art form; it's a warm welcome. These arches adorn entrances to towns, cities, and villages, often gracing the celebrations of festivals and special occasions. During the festive Singkaban Festival held every September, these arches become the heart of the competition, showcasing the artistry and resourcefulness of local communities.

Si Maria Bilang Isang Dalagang Filipina. Pinoy Inspired Arrangement and Execution by Rovin Reyes for Sancta Maria Mater Inviolata. Calachuchi, Singkaban at Capiz. (Manila Grand Marian Procession 20240

Singkaban refers to intricately designed bamboo arches that are prominently displayed during fiestas, as well as at church entrances and altars during Christmas and other special occasions. These arches are more than mere decorations; they are symbols of community spirit and artistic expression. The creation of a singkaban involves meticulous planning and a deep understanding of the traditional designs and techniques that have been refined over the years.

The beauty of Singkaban lies in its simplicity. Using only bamboo, skilled artisans shave, bend, and weave the stalks into intricate designs. The process itself is a testament to generations-old techniques passed down through families. While the core structure is built with bamboo, additional materials like leaves, flowers, and indigenous fabrics can be incorporated to create vibrant and thematic displays.

Thematic elements often reflect the local culture and the occasion. For instance, a Singkaban during a harvest festival might incorporate elements like rice stalks or vegetables, while a religious celebration could see the use of religious symbols.

Singkaban's significance goes beyond aesthetics. It serves as a symbol of hospitality, welcoming visitors and fostering a sense of community pride. The annual Singkaban Festival is a vibrant celebration of this art form, drawing crowds to witness the artistry and the stories these arches tell.

So, next time you travel to the Philippines, keep an eye out for these magnificent bamboo structures. They're not just arches; they're testaments to a living tradition, a warm welcome, and a glimpse into the heart of Filipino artistry.

The Crafting Process

The process of making a singkaban starts with the kayas or shaved bamboo portions. Each part of the arch must complement the overall design, making it crucial to finalize all components before assembly, as incorporating changes later is challenging. The key designs featured in a singkaban include:

• Rayos/Bilog: These are shaved bamboo sticks with ends nailed to a round piece of bamboo, known as a doughnut, which resembles the wheel of a karitela (carriage).
• Abaniko/Pamaypay: This fan-shaped bamboo is placed on top of the panels or headers, adding an elegant flair to the arch.
• Bulakaykay: A prominent feature of the singkaban poles, often created using the palubid or spiral technique. This method, employed by brothers Jeffrey and Gerry Eligio, grandsons of the late Master of Singkaban Maker Francisco "Kiko" Eligio, creates a unique coiled effect on the bamboo poles.
• Half Moon: A smaller type of abaniko/pamaypay positioned at both sides of the arch, serving as a complementary design.

Though traditionally composed solely of shaved bamboo parts, singkaban can also be adorned with additional designs depending on the theme. For instance, during the Palaisdaan Festival, a singkaban featuring the bangus (milkfish), a notable product of Hagonoy, won 1st Place at the 2023 Singkaban Festival’s bamboo arch competition.

The Eligio Family: Guardians of Tradition

The Eligio family has been at the forefront of preserving and transmitting the art of singkaban. The late Francisco "Kiko" Eligio, a revered Master of Singkaban Maker, dedicated his life to this craft. He once remarked, "Hangga’t hindi bumibitaw ang mga Pilipino sa katutubong likhang sining, hindi mawawala ang sining ng singkaban" ("As long as Filipinos continue to hold dear onto our traditional arts, the art of singkaban will not fade").

Kiko's legacy is continued by his descendants. His son, Emil Eligio, actively conducts workshops for Alternative Learning System (ALS) students in Bulacan, ensuring that the tradition is passed on to younger generations. This commitment to education and cultural preservation underscores the deep-rooted significance of folk art in the community.

Singkaban Festival: A Celebration of Heritage

Singkaban Festival

The Singkaban Festival, a cultural festival held in Bulacan every September 15th, serves as a grand showcase of this traditional art. This week-long celebration culminates on the date that marks the anniversary of the Malolos Congress in 1898, and is considered the mother of all fiestas in the province.

History of Singkaban Festival

The festival derives its name from singkaban, the welcoming bamboo arch customarily found at entrances greeting visitors during various celebrations. Bamboo, a significant resource in the province, is a mainstay of the festival, highlighting its cultural and economic importance. Similar celebrations of bamboo can be seen in the Abrenian Kawayan Festival of Abra.

Originally called Linggo ng Bulacan (Bulacan Week), the festival began in 1986 under then-Governor Roberto Pagdanganan and adopted its current name in 1997. The festival was paused in 2020 and 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic but was revived in 2022.

Commemorating the Malolos Congress

The Singkaban Festival also commemorates the historic Malolos Congress, which was convened at Barasoain Church in Malolos, the then-capital of the Philippines, in 1898. As the legislative body of the Philippine revolutionary government from 1898 to 1901, the Congress drafted the Malolos Constitution, regarded as the first Philippine constitution and the first republican constitution in Asia. This constitution was approved by President Emilio Aguinaldo on January 21, 1899.

The festival’s closing ceremonies on September 15th mark the anniversary of the opening of the Congress, celebrating this significant moment in Philippine history.

Singkaban: More Than Art

Folk art like singkaban is deeply intertwined with the culture and identity of the community it represents. It reflects not only the artistic talents of individuals but also the collective effort to sustain and celebrate their heritage. The singkaban, with its intricate designs and cultural symbolism, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Filipino people and their unwavering commitment to preserving their traditional arts.

As we honor the art of singkaban and the dedicated efforts of the Eligio family, we are reminded of the importance of cultural heritage in shaping our identities and communities. The singkaban is more than just an arch; it is a bridge connecting the past and the present, a beacon of tradition illuminating the path to the future.