This Muslim group celebrates Islamic festivals (kalilangs) with devotional feastings and exercises. During festive days, one sees members of royalty accompanied by their parasol bearers. There are lots of outdoor games like horse racing. Another feature of the kalilang is dancing. People perform the world- renowned singkil. This dance takes its name from the bells worn on the ankles of the princess. Perhaps one of the oldest of truly Filipino dances, the singkil recounts the epic legend of the "Darangan". Written sometime in the 14th century, it recounts the fateful story of Princess Gandingan, who was caught in the middle of a forest during an earthquake caused by the diwatas, or fairies of the forest. The crisscrossed bamboo poles represent the trees that were falling, which she gracefully avoids. Her slave loyally accompanies her throughout her ordeal. Finally, she is saved by the prince. Dancers skillfully manipulate apir, or fans, which represent the winds that prove to be auspicious.
