The curtains closed on Iloilo City's Dinagyang Festival as crowds packed the streets to witness the grand finale—a dance parade marking the peak of celebrations. Themed "Pagdayaw kay Señor Sto. Niño, Pagdayaw sa mga Ilonggo," the festival exalted the profound faith of Ilonggos in the Holy Child Jesus every fourth Sunday of January. This devotion unfolded through majestic fluvial and solemn foot processions, accompanied by the grand religious spectacle, "sadsad."
"Sadsad," a distinctive form of religious devotion, took center stage during Dinagyang. Devotees, carrying images of Sto. Niño, engaged in a spiritual dance, offering prayers and intentions. This event holds profound spiritual significance, with participants recounting tales of miraculous experiences. The seamless blend of faith, culture, and artistry in Dinagyang's "sadsad" contributes to its uniqueness, elevating it to a cherished tradition.
Dinagyang: A Global Cultural Marvel
Mayor Jerry Treñas, with pride, remarked, “Recognized thrice as the best tourism event in the country, Dinagyang has etched its presence on the national and global stage, making it a highly anticipated spectacle for visitors and tourists alike.” The festival has evolved into a symbol of cultural excellence, establishing itself as one of the premier and world-class festivals in the Philippines. Dinagyang, with its fusion of tradition, talent, and spiritual fervor, continues to captivate hearts and leave an indelible mark on all who partake in its festivities.
Tribu Pan-ay and Tultugan Festival Shine
Joyful cheers and jubilant cries filled the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand as Tribu Pan-ay celebrated their victorious return to the championship title in the Ati-atihan tribes competition, ending a 12-year hiatus. Representing Fort San Pedro National High School, Tribu Pan-ay outperformed seven other contingents on Sunday, securing P25 million worth of school projects and a P1 million cash prize. Joining them in the top five were awe-inspiring performances from Tribu Paghidaet, Tribu Ilonganon, Tribu Mandu-Riyaw, and Tribu Salognon.
Meanwhile, the Tultugan Festival of Maasin town emerged triumphant in the "Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan," earning a PHP500,000 cash prize. Uswag Partylist pledged PHP10 million worth of projects, and the festival received an extra PHP40,000 for excelling in various categories. Commendations also went to outstanding participants, including Tribu Jalaud of Hirinugyaw Sugidanonay of Calinog and the Kaing Festival of Leon.
