REVELERS flood the streets of Cadiz City, Negros Occidental during the penultimate day of the 52nd Dinagsa Festival on Sunday, Jan. 25. (Bilis Cadiz)
BACOLOD CITY – Around 300,000 revelers graced the finale of the 52nd Dinagsa Festival dubbed the “Lamhitanay sa Dalan” on Sunday, Jan. 25, in Cadiz City, Negros Occidental.
“It was a peaceful, colorful, and beautiful street chaos—only in the Philippines,” Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr. said in describing the ever-unique Lamhitanay sa Dalan. “It mirrors a formidable unity—peerless, therefore.”
Escalante described this year’s festival with the theme “One Faith. One Child. One Colorful Celebration” as more than just a success.
He said it created lasting positive impacts on the lives of Cadiznons and visitors alike—adding another unforgettable chapter to the city’s growing collection of cherished memories.
The city pays homage to Sto. Niño de Cadiz, revered as the city’s great provider and protector for more than five decades.
Escalante thanked everyone who supported, participated in, and celebrated with them.
“The overall success of this year's festival is undoubtedly a blessing from our Patron, Señor Santo Niño de Cadiz,” he said.
He recognized talented performers, cultural groups, barangays, organizers, sponsors, volunteers, and city government employees for their hard work, creativity, and selfless dedication that brought life and color to this year's festival.
Escalante thanked visitors and the people of Cadiz for sharing in the joy, pride, and vibrant spirit of the city.
“Your presence and zeal remind us that Dinagsa is more than just a festival, it is a celebration of life, our culture, our faith and our resilience as a people,” the mayor said.
The 10-day festival from Jan. 16 to 26 peaked with the traditional Ati Dance Competition on Sunday. Another major highlight was the crowning of Assia Jean Ur-Rehman as Dinagsa Queen on Jan. 23.
Cadiz City also hosted the 28th Paralympiada on Jan. 23 for children with special needs.