Gabii sa Kabilin to ignite pride among Bisaya

CEBU, Philippines — This year’s Gabii sa Kabilin (GSK) offers participants a reflection and rediscovery on the many reasons that make Cebu and the Cebuanos unique and special.

On May 10, 2024 from 6 pm until midnight, 22 museums and heritage sites in the cities of Cebu, Lapu-lapu, Mandaue, and Talisay will ignite a sense of belongingness and pride of place for all “Bisaya.”

This year’s theme: 'Beloved Bisaya', draws inspiration from the legacy of Jesuit missionary, Fr. Francisco Ignacio Alcina, a historian and ethnographer of 17th-century Visayas, who demonstrated profound affection for the region through his extensive documentation of Visayan flora, fauna, life, culture, and history.

His writings reflect a deep love and pride for the Visayas and its people, whom he affectionately referred to as 'my beloved Bisaya'.

Premium tickets for the Gabii sa Kabilin are available for only P300. Each premium ticket offers priority access to all 22 participating sites, unlimited bus rides, one tartanilla ride, and entry into all GSK-led contests.

Premium ticket holders have the exclusive opportunity to engage in the four (4) contests: the Snapshot Photo Contest, Minuto Reel Contest, GSK Meme Contest, and the much-anticipated Heritage Hunt.

GSK promises a fun and unforgettable experience for families, friends, and enthusiasts alike as it introduces three (3) returning museums-- the National Museum of the Philippines, BPI Museum, and Cebu Normal University.

Alongside these additions, GSK-goers can expect exclusive performances, various food bazaars, engaging games and prizes, and most importantly, an immersive night filled with cultural experiences that will instill pride in every Bisaya!

Initiated in 2007 by RAFI, Gabii sa Kabilin aims to celebrate Cebu’s rich heritage, cultivate a sense of identity and pride of place among Cebuanos, and help preserve local culture and heritage by encouraging Cebuanos to visit museums. — (FREEMAN)