The Philippines in general, and Cavinti in particular, has a diverse cultural history. Hence, the customs and traditions are equally as diverse. These practices, as well as the mode of living, to a great extent, have been affected by modernization, undoubtedly due to influences of the foreign countries that ruled the Philippines. However, there are still many that can be found in the rural areas and can, therefore, be traced to colonial ancestry. And what is more fascinating is that these admirable practices have found their way to the hearts and homes of the Cavintinians overseas.

But one thing is of equal importance mentioning in this write-up: the vanishing customs and traditions in Cavinti. I will discuss only one as of this writing. I will write about the harana for the information of the unknowledgeable and a reminder to those who have forgotten this desirable practice. It is regrettable that this laudable tradition is passing out.

What is the harana?

The harana is a traditional form of courtship in Cavinti, and in other parts of the Philippines as well, wherein a man woos a woman by singing underneath her window at anight. This is done with a set of protocol, a code of conduct and a specified style of music.

What is the harana?

The harana is a traditional form of courtship in Cavinti, and in other parts of the Philippines as well, wherein a man woos a woman by singing underneath her window at anight. This is done with a set of protocol, a code of conduct and a specified style of music.

In this endeavor, the most favored instrument to use is the guitar where its intimate sound complements the love songs invading the breezy and quiet air of the night. But in the absence of one, the violin, the ukulele or any other instrument may be used. The harana
is solely a nocturnal practice.

For the harana to be successful, one or both of the following instances must happen:

1. The serenaders will be invited to come into the young lady’s house. The singing will continue and the young lady will be requested to join them in singing or to render a song of her own.
2. The serenaders, especially if they come from another town, will be invited to come to the young lady’s house and/or may be treated to a merienda. Later, when the singing resumes, the young lady will be requested to share them with a song.

The harana is solely a nocturnal practice.

Note: Please add one or more so that we can make  a list of these disappearing traditions in Cavinti. Thank you.