The DaBaLisTiHit Festival is an annual cultural and environmental celebration held in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro, dedicated to honoring the rich biodiversity of Naujan Lake and the vital role of local fisherfolk. The festival’s name, DaBaLisTiHit, is an acronym representing the lake’s most common freshwater species: Dalag (mudfish), Banak (mullet), Banglis (sardine), Tilapia, and Hito (catfish).
Through vibrant street dancing, artistic props, and thematic costumes, the festival dramatizes the unique connection between the people of Naujan and their environment. It celebrates both the abundance of aquatic life in the lake and the community’s ongoing struggle to protect and value this important natural resource.
Festival Highlights
Street Dancing and Costumes
Performers take to the streets wearing elaborate costumes inspired by the lake’s freshwater fish. The dances portray fishing practices, water rituals, and the life of fisherfolk, creating a visually stunning tribute to Naujan Lake.
Environmental Education
Alongside the cultural showcases, the festival includes exhibits and talks aimed at raising awareness about lake conservation, responsible fishing, and ecological sustainability.
Cultural Expression
Music, visual arts, and performances reflect the community’s livelihood and deep respect for their natural surroundings, emphasizing the dignity and resilience of local fisherfolk.
Community and Cultural Impact
The DaBaLisTiHit Festival stands as a meaningful expression of Naujan\'s commitment to environmental stewardship and cultural identity. It fosters pride among residents, educates the youth on the importance of lake preservation, and unites the community in honoring the resources that sustain them.
By showcasing the beauty of Naujan Lake and the lives connected to it, the festival becomes more than a celebration—it is a call to protect a vital ecological treasure and the people who depend on it.
