Many have wondered why and how the so-called "Handuraw Festival" came into reality. What is its focal core with the usual commemoration of the death of our national hero - Dr. Jose P. Rizal? Indeed, its appeal to some commentaries is something that opposes the real concentrate of this great festivity. Inquiries focus more on the deep implication of the said first-ever gala affair.
To some, why do we celebrate the customary holiday with merriment and gladness, the fact that the 30th day of December reminds us of the national hero's eternal return in the hands of preceding brutal conquerors? That was the day when dust exploded in the air and the hero's blood diverse the emotions in every heart of Filipinos of the past struggling generations. That day must be remembered well as it initiates the courage and hope that somehow at that time had almost evacuate in the spirit of every Filipino quenching the thirst for freedom.
Since then, islands all over the archipelago memorialize the day solemnly lamenting with respect and honor. Offering his monument bunches of colorful flowers and having short curricula that would simply mean a ceremony. This was the usual scenario inscribed in the history a day before a year ends.
But then, the "Handuraw Festival" stands out and makes the difference! It distinguishes itself, for by nature, it is a celebration full of exhilaration and bombshells to anticipate. Several activities had been prepared not just for the people to watch, but also, for them to look forward to as it signals to grow bigger and grander year after year. The first ever "Handuraw" is but a response to the urge of appreciating and glorifying the transforming works of Dr. Jose Rizal who did not only heed for the Shrine City but valued it as much as he felt the need for education himself. A local festivity it is, but it's essence is something everyone, not only Filipinos can embrace and caress in loving memory of an idol who weren't born only to serve the calling of his own yearning, but, to herald a renascent place for his fellow brown skinned brethrens.
The "Handuraw" is a replica of a strong man…a man who lived to grow stronger and braver in defense of his fatherland. It is a reunion not only of Rizalians, but of other patriots who has in their hearts the immense veins of the Malay people who showed valor in the face of terror, nationalism in the face of subjugation, dignity in the forefront of honor and brotherhood in the presence of equality.
The quintessence of the "Handuraw" does not only reverberate in the later part of each year, it is perennial and it knots in its calendar the very way Rizal wanted to see people gather in oneness, not in remembering him as an idol but as a patriarch who in every generation, tried to keep his children one and intact.
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