Ibalon
Ibalon, or Ibalong, is an ancient settlement currently located in present-day Magallanes, Sorsogon, Philippines, renowned as the first Spanish settlement in the island of Luzon. At some point, the name Ibalong has been used by the Spanish to refer to the entire Bicol Peninsula, and to some extent the entire island of Luzon.
The epic of Ibalong, however, is currently celebrated in Legazpi City in Albay. The Ibalong Festival celebrates the epic story of the town of Ibalong with three legendary heroes, namely Baltog, Handyong, Bantong and other ancient heroes. People parade in the streets wearing masks and costumes to imitate the appearances of the heroes and the villains, portraying the classic battles that made their way into the history of Bicol. The Ibalong Festival aims to express warmth and goodwill to all people; visitors and tourists are encouraged to celebrate with the Bicolanos.
