“You don’t stumble upon your heritage. It’s there, just waiting to be explored and shared.” –Robbie Robertson
There is always an element of pride and exhilaration etched on the faces of Ilonggos anywhere in the world when discussing the Iloilo Dinagyang Festival. They are always filled with excitement and enthusiasm when the topic of Iloilo City’s annual cultural and religious celebration is brought up – there is no other event that defines Ilonggo heritage and culture.
Hysteria over the event, which includes a fluvial parade, the Ati tribes competition, sports and tourism programs, along with other cultural and religious activities, brings about positive energy across the city.
Ilonggos often talk about Dinagyang Festival as if they were promoting personal values, talents, and achievements.
Dinagyang is Iloilo; Iloilo is Dinagyang
There is so much that radiates along the horizon whenever an Ilonggo talks about the 51-year-old festival, which has become the focal point for Department of Tourism-Region VI director, Atty. Helen J. Catalbas, and Iloilo City tourism chief Junel Ann Divinagracia in their promotions of the region. Even the Iloilo Business Club is smitten with the celebration as they see it making a solid impact on business and investment opportunities
In addition, members of the Philippine National Police deserve special attention, credit, and commendation as the festival continues to proceed without anarchic bedlam.
Ilonggos always find the Dinagyang Festival an occasion to refine and rebuild their spirit and character.
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Ricardo Alonsabe, an Ilonggo overseas Filipino worker (OFW) in the Seychelles, watched the Dinagyang Festival from his laptop last year.
“I opened my Facebook account and was able to get access to the ‘live’ performances,” said Alonsabe, who works as a chef.
Alonsabe’s co-workers and some tourists joined him and were enthralled by the drumbeat and choreography of the Ati warriors.
“It’s really a world class festival,” he added.
Alonsabe and thousands of other OFWs around the world were like watching the festival “live.”
With the advent of technology, the Iloilo Dinagyang Festival can now be seen on the internet and social media./WDJ