Spanish influence

After the Spaniards settled down in the Philippines, some Catholic elements infiltrated in the fiesta,
especially honoring Santo Nio. A Spanish representative arranged a deal with the local leaders of
the Atis and the leader of the immigrants from Borneo. The outcome of the deal was, that in the future
the existing native celebration would be dedicated to the Santo Nio. Nowadays it is a mix of
parades, procession and dancing people on the rhythms of monotonous music of drums or the
rhythmic tinkling of metal and stone on bottles. It looks as if the dancing never stops! The ritual dance
originates from the Atis. The name Ati-Atihan means "make-believe Atis."