ILIGAN CITY – The Diyandi Festival, a unique, month-long celebration of three different cultures and merry-making and thanksgiving, opened on August 30 at the Anahaw Amphitheater, Buhanginan Hills, Barangay Pala-o, here.
ILIGAN City Mayor Frederick Siao lights a torch signaling the official start of the month-long Diyandi Festival on August 30 at the Anahaw Amphitheater, Buhanginan Hills, Barangay Pala-o, Iligan. (Bonita Ermac)
Diyandi is Higaonon for celebration, merry-making, or thanksgiving for God's shield and continued protection and honors this city’s patron, Saint Michael the Archangel, said Mayor Frederick W. Siao.
“This Diyandi Festival is a testament of our rich heritage, this is the time to celebrate and show the unique quality that makes Iligan City truly exceptional,” Siao said. “May this celebration fill our hearts with joy, strengthen our unity, and encourage us to thrive to make a beautiful and progressive City of Iligan,” he added.
"As the mayor of Iligan, I formally invite everyone to join our festivities."
Department of Tourism-10 (Northern Mindanao) Director Marie Elaine Unchuan said the Diyandi Festival stands as a powerful symbol of this city's unwavering commitment to preserving its rich multi-cultural heritage.
"With the opening of this year's month-long Diyandi Festival, we hope to bring back a joyous spirit that always characterized this glorious celebration, this time with fewer restrictions and more fun," Unchuan said.
The city government unit has prepared more than 100 activities such as the opening of Mugna on August 31, the
“pagpakanaug” (descending of the patron's statue) on September 20, “lechon” (roasted pig) festival, and street dancing on September 27.
Diyandi Executive Management Board (EMB) Chairman Jules Verne Padilla thanked those who have been instrumental in preparing for the success of this month-long celebration.
I am here today with a heart full of gratitude and pride, not only for the incredible effort that have gone into preparing this spectacular event but also to the unyielding spirits of the people of Iligan City, Padilla said.
“This festival is not merely an event, it is a tribute to each one of you who have poured their time and energy and unwavering dedication into making this extravaganza a reality.”
Iligan police chief Police Col. Renante delos Santos assured security for Diyandi.
Delos Santos said all the 140 activities and events lined up have security plan with the help of the Philippine Army, civil security units, and force multipliers.
He bared that they have requested an augmentation force from the PRO-10 regional headquarters.
"That means that we have enough forces to secure Iligan City," Delos Santos said.