The Menajak Festival is an annual cultural festival celebrated in Calamba every February 14, coinciding with the municipality’s Araw ng Calamba (Foundation Day).
The word “Menajak” comes from the language of the Subanen Tribes and means “love.” The festival is held on Valentine’s Day, making the name especially meaningful while also honoring the area’s indigenous heritage.
Highlights of the Menajak Festival
- Street dancing featuring colorful Subanen-inspired costumes.
- Ritual dance competitions that portray the traditions, beliefs, and culture of the Subanen people.
- Performances accompanied by traditional instruments such as the agong (gong) and drums.
- The Menajak Festival Queen pageant, where lead dancers from competing groups showcase both cultural dance skills and poise.
Purpose of the Festival
The Menajak Festival aims to:
- Preserve and promote the culture and traditions of the Subanen, the original inhabitants of the area.
- Celebrate the foundation anniversary of Calamba.
- Strengthen community pride and attract visitors through cultural tourism.
In short, the Menajak Festival is both a Foundation Day celebration and a cultural festival that showcases the rich heritage of the Subanen people through music, dance, traditional attire, and community festivities.