ILIGAN CITY -- Iliganons are excited about the celebration of this year’s Diyandi festival – a celebration of God’s goodness and blessings – which the people missed for two years because of COVID-19 pandemic.
City Mayor Frederick W. Siao affirmed the government was right in giving priority to the people's health as vaccines were still being formulated by experts.
"In this development, after two years, we have enough vaccinated people, and we are opening up the markets," said Siao.
The local government would want to make it up this time for the Iliganons through the merry-making festivities in honor of their Patron Saint, Saint Michael the Archangel.
Diyandi is a Higaonon term which means thanksgiving, merry-making and it’s all about celebrating God's goodness and blessings all year through.
On Thursday, Sept. 1, an opening salvo signaling the start of the Diyandi Festival month-long celebration was held at the Anahaw Amphitheater in Barangay Pala-o here.
The calendar of activities was unveiled during the activity highlighted by the presentation of three sets of candidates for Miss Iligan 2022, Mr. Diyandi King and Miss Gay. The day ended with a fireworks display.
Mayor Siao was impressed with all the events lined up for this year's fiesta celebration and commended the fiesta Executive Management Board (EMB) led by its chairperson, Cathy Caday Tan, for making Iligan festive in every way they can.
He enjoined everyone to enjoy but at the same time reminded them to observe health protocols.
Some of the major highlights of the Diyandi Festival the locals and tourists are looking up to are the following: Rito sa Pagpakanaug, Kasadya Street Dancing and showdown, Lechon festival and tartanilya painting contest among others.
Meanwhile, PNP City Director Colonel Dominador Estrada ensured the city's security with the presence of augmentation forces.
He also coordinated with the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army.
"We already made security plans on the big events maximizing our personnel and mobilizing our multipliers for maximum security", said Iligan City Police Office (ICPO) Spokesperson Police Major Zandrex Panolong.
The Philippine National Police is urging everybody to be alert and vigilant at all times and immediately report to the police hotlines if they notice any suspicious actions or things.