Panatang Sayaw

Barangay Poblacion was once a poor village in a swampland along the Pasig River and the first settlement of what would eventually become the financial district of Makat City. Each year, on the 29th and 30th of June, the residents celebrate the feast of their patron saints--the Apostles Peter and Paul, and Our Lady of the Rose. On both days, nine young ladies perform a three-hour long ritual that that begins with a procession, and culminates with a song and dance performance. The practice, known as Panating Sayaw, dates back to the 18th century and is an expression of thanksgiving for the blessings and miracles that has been granted to the community. The ladies are chosen among the young unmarried descendants of performers from previous generations.