Hambabalud Festival is celebrated every month of January.

Jimalalud is a 4th class municipality in the province of Negros Oriental, Philippines.

Jimalalud's Hambabalud Festival derives its name from the towering hambabalud trees found in the municipality which are said to be the inhabited by malignant spirits. To counteract the evils unleashed, the local folks seek the intercession of their patron, the Holy Child.

Streetdancing and a grand showdown dramatize the Santo Niño's presence in the varied pursuits of Jimalalud's different sectors; the festival preludes the town fiesta honoring the Holy child; another crowd-drawing highlight is the rousing traditional horsefight.

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photo courtesy of Negros Oriental Provincial Tourism Office