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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Metro Manila devider Thousands join Obando fertility rites amid trials

Thousands join Obando fertility rites amid trials

Published May 18, 2026 07:53 pm
Thousands of devotees and visitors, both local and foreign, flocked to this town from May 17 to 19 for the annual Fertility Rites Festival, honoring St. Pascual Baylon, St. Clare of Assisi, and Our Lady of Salambao.
Thousands gathered in Obando, Bulacan for the 2026 Fertility Dance celebration, joyfully singing ‘Santa Clara pinong-pino -- the traditional hymn and novena to St. Clare -- accompanied by musicians playing bamboo-crafted instruments that filled the air with their vibrant sound. (Photos from Mayor Valeda/Facebook)
Thousands gathered in Obando, Bulacan for the 2026 Fertility Dance celebration, joyfully singing ‘Santa Clara pinong-pino -- the traditional hymn and novena to St. Clare -- accompanied by musicians playing bamboo-crafted instruments that filled the air with their vibrant sound. (Photos from Mayor Valeda/Facebook)
Thousands gathered in Obando, Bulacan for the 2026 Fertility Dance celebration, joyfully singing ‘Santa Clara pinong-pino -- the traditional hymn and novena to St. Clare -- accompanied by musicians playing bamboo-crafted instruments that filled the air with their vibrant sound. (Photos from Mayor Valeda/Facebook)
Thousands gathered in Obando, Bulacan for the 2026 Fertility Dance celebration, joyfully singing ‘Santa Clara pinong-pino -- the traditional hymn and novena to St. Clare -- accompanied by musicians playing bamboo-crafted instruments that filled the air with their vibrant sound. (Photos from Mayor Valeda/Facebook)
The three‑day celebration unfolded despite recent challenges, including the burning of the Navotas sanitary landfill that released toxic fumes.
Mayor Leonardo “Ding” Valeda said the Fertility Dance has long been a tradition for residents and pilgrims across Luzon, who return each year to take part in the historic ritual.
After the Holy Mass, processions filled the streets as groups of dancers joined at every corner, swelling the crowd.
Governor Daniel R. Fernando and Vice Governor Alexis C. Castro led provincial officials in showing solidarity with the Obando community.
“This celebration preserves our rich heritage and strengthens the faith and hope of every Bulakenyo,” Castro said.
Devotees sang the traditional hymn “Santa Clara pinong‑pino” to the beat of bamboo instruments, while men, women, and children in native costumes danced alongside images of their patron saints.
Many prayed for blessings of fertility, asking for sons or daughters in what locals call the “magic and mystery of Obando.”
The colorful ritual, blending faith, culture, and unity, remains one of Bulacan’s most iconic traditions, drawing throngs of pilgrims and tourists each year.

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