The Dinagyang Festival of Iloilo City has been invited to perform in New Zealand and Japan.
TRIBU Paghidaet of La Paz National High School is the champion of the Ati category competition of the 2025 Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo City. (Tara Yap)
“With their invitations, we will proudly showcase Iloilo City and the Dinagyang Festival to an international audience. Thus, promoting our rich culture and artistry,” said Mayor Jerry Treñas after the weekend highlight.
Tribu Paghidaet of La Paz National High School emerged as champion this year in the Ati category competition of the festival that honors the Santo Niño or Child Jesus.
The street performances of the Dinagyang depict the folkloric story of the pact between the native Ati people and the Bornean migrants of Panay as well their conversion into Christianity.
The Dinagyang has participated in many cultural events in the United States, Japan, Singapore, and Hong Kong.
Last year, the Dinagyang was awarded the Asia-Pacific Folklore Festival of 2024 by the International Festival and Events Association (IFEA-Asia) in Thailand.
The Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc. (IFFI) noted that the Dinagyang has the distinction of being the only Philippine recipient of the award since IFEA was established in 1956.