Dinagyang Festival 2015 in Iloilo

Dubbed as one of the most sought-after festivals in the Philippines, Dinagyang is feted in honor of Señor Santo Niño (Child Jesus). It traces its root back in 1967, when a replica of the Holy Child was first brought to San Jose Parish in Iloilo City from Cebu.  The word “Dinagyang” is actually an Iloilo term for revelry; Ilonggo writer Pacifico Sudario suggested the use of this term to replace the name “Iloilo Ati-Atihan” to differentiate it from other Ati-Atihan festivals in the country.

Last January 25, Sunday, Iloilo’s street was filled once again with drumbeats and revelry as the “City of Love” celebrated Dinagyang Festival 2015.  While ten contingents joined Kasadyahan  Regional Cultural Competition on Saturday, only nine groups joined this year’s Ati Tribe competition.

Unsurprisingly, defending champion Tribu Panayanon was announced as the winner this year’s Ati Tribe Competition. Tribu Ilonganon of Jalandoni Memorial National High School is the 2^nd runner up, while Tribu Salognon of Jaro National High School is the 3^rd runner up. Tribu Ilawodnon of Fort San Pedro National High School bagged the 4^th runner award.

For the Kasadyahan Regional Cultural Competition, my personal favorite – Tribu Tatusan of Caluya, Antique was decalred as the champion. Tribu Pantat of ZarragaTown, Iloilo followed and Tribu Kaing of Leon town bagged the 2^nd runner up. The gorgeous Pinta Flores of San Carlos City in Negros Occidental emerged as the 3^rd runner up, while Salakayan Festival of Miag-ao, Iloilo is the 4^th runner up.

Dinagyang – though getting as commercialized as other big festivals in the country – is worth experiencing. The breath-snatching and infectious performances, genius and impressive choreographies, colorful dazzling costumes that blends beautifully with flamboyant props, coupled with the genuine warmth and sweetness of the Ilonggos, make it stand out among other fêtes in the country.

It would be better though if they also focus on the street parade, not just on stage performance so every festival-goer can enjoy the fete, not just those who secured and paid for the seats on stage. I’ve witnessed the chaos during Dinagyang’s street parade; some contingents were just running to get to the next stage, while others were nonchalant and not lined up neatly while walking hurriedly. Nevertheless, Dinagyang, like most revelries in the country; speaks volume of the harmony and the extraordinary creativity of the locals and is sure worth the effort.