By Izah Morales
INQUIRER.net

SOMETIMES you just hate the rain especially the nonstop downpour that causes flooding — not to mention wet socks and feet.

In Muntinlupa City, however, no rain can stop the celebration of the Banhayan Festival as residents of barangay Cupang and Buli danced and sang despite the strong rains. I saw people who were barefoot not complaining, as they followed the long route of the parade.

Young and old folks rejoiced in honor of their patron saint, San Nicolas de Tolentino. One of the members of the Mother Butler Guild, Mrs. Matilde Fernandez, recalled that the Banhayan Festival began in 1995 as a way of thanksgiving and praise to their patron saint who they believe is miraculous.

According to her, Banhayan, a term coined by their former parish priest Fr. Balmare, is also a celebration of the ties of barangays Buli and Cupang.

Apart from Fernandez, Inang Auring Malaca, 71-year-old candle vendor, is among the many believers of the miracles of their patron saint. In her dream of patron saint, Poong Kulas, she was told to get San Francisco leaves to put on a body part, which needed healing. Since then, she said she became a ‘hilot’ in their place.

As Inang Auring lighted the candles and said prayers, she showed how her faith keeps the fire burning and how prayers can bring miracles. It is as if they are saying, “What else would you hold on to when darkness befalls you?”