ILOILO CITY – This city and province of Iloilo emerged victorious at the Aliwan Fiesta 2024, a national competition among the various festivals in the country, in Manila on Saturday, June 29.
THE Dinagyang Festival of Iloilo City (left) and the Tultugan Festival of Maasin town, Iloilo province perform at the Aliwan Fiesta 2024 in Manila on Saturday, June 29. (Arnold Quizol)
The Dinagyang Festival of Iloilo City won the title while the Tultugan Festival of Maasin town was second.
Dinagyang has earned back-to-back and eight Aliwan championships.
The Dinagyang is a festival every January that honors the Santo Niño or Child Jesus.
The street dance depicts the feast that followed when folkloric Borneans entered into a pact with the native settlers Ati and their eventual Christianization when the Spanish colonizers arrived.
Dinagyang was represented by Tribu Pan-ay of Fort San Pedro National High School.
Tultugan depicts the heritage and culture of Maasin anchored on its thriving bamboo industry.
“These festivals not only highlight Iloilo’s vibrant culture but also strengthen our community bonds,” said Iloilo Gov. Arthur “Toto” Defensor Jr. who watched the competition with key Iloilo officials.
“Through their outstanding performances, they have not only brought honor to our city and province, but have also strengthened the bonds that unite us as Ilonggos,” added Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas.
The Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc. (IFFI) led by chairperson Judgee Lopez Peña and president Allan Ryan Tan were also present to support the contingents.