ILOILO CITY – Two major festivals in Western Visayas emerged victorious in the 2023 Aliwan Fiesta, a competition among the country’s biggest festivals, over the weekend in Pasay City.
The Dinagyang Festival here is this year’s champion while Manggahan Festival of the island-province Guimaras is the second runner-up.
Dinagyang, represented by Tribu Parianon of Molo District, depicted the merriment of native Aetas (Atis) who welcomed Bornean settlers to Panay Island and later became Christians.
THE Dinagyang Festival of Iloilo City, represented by Tribu Parianon of the Molo District National High School, emerged champion in the 2023 Aliwan Fiesta in Pasay City over the weekend. (Jade Dequiña/CMO)
The Manggahan, represented by Tribu Balsahan of Sibunag town, depicted the bountiful sea and mango produce of the island-province. Guimaras is believed to produce one of the sweetest varieties of mangoes in the world.
“We are very proud of our tribe. They have brought honor and glory to our city. Once again, we have shown everyone that we are No. 1,” said Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas in a statement on Sunday, July 16.
“I congratulate the Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc. While you are from the private sector, you have given so much of your time, effort, and resources for our celebrations and festivals,” added Treñas.