Monday, January 26, 2004
Atub-Atub, Bola-Bola top Ati-ati contest
By Jennifer Depakakibo and Mary Grace Ege

TRIBU Atub-Atub bagged anew the top plum in the Barangay Category, while comebacking Tribu Bola-Bola of Iloilo National High School won the championship trophy in the Open Category in Sunday's Ati-Atihan contest, the higlight of the Dinagyang 2004 festival.

President Arroyo, who came to the Freedom Grandstand at 8:30 p.m. Sunday night, awarded the trophies to the winners, along with Mayor Jerry Treñas.

Arroyo also donated P120,000 as additional cash incentives for the winners. After losing to Tribu Paghidaet in 2002, Bola-Bola came back with a vengeance and took back the crown which they held for five consecutive years - from 1996 to 2001.

The tribe was put up in 1992 and was named from the two balls found at the two pillars of the gate, which was built during the American period.

Their executive producer is Dr. Riza Amaguin.

Bola-Bola received special awards for Best in Discipline, Best in Music, Best in Choreography and Best in Performance.

With their colorful costumes, Tribu Jalaud bagged the Best in Costume award and the second place.

Defending champion Paghidaet only placed third this year.

Kasadyahan

Meanwhile, Tribu kahilwayan of Sta. Barbara was declared champion in the Kasadyahan contest after sweeping the minor awards, including Best in Music, Best in Choreography, Best in Performance and Best in Costume.

This is the third time Kahilwayan won the championship trophy.

Tribu Maragtas of West Visayas State University placed second while Tribu Aguilawan of University of San Agustin, third.