By Mariela Angella Oladive
The Iloilo City Government has allocated PHP 40 million for the much-awaited Dinagyang Festival 2025, with half of the budget set aside as subsidies for participants.
Renowned for its dynamic street performances and rich cultural displays, the Dinagyang Festival remains a major attraction for local and international tourists.
“The city allocated PHP 40 million for the festival, but we sought sponsorships to augment the budget since PHP 40 million is not enough. Half of it already goes to subsidies for the participants, with additional allocations for cash prizes and other expenses,” said Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc. (IFFI) Executive Director Joyce Clavecillas in an interview with Daily Guardian.
She emphasized ongoing efforts to optimize resources and ensure the event’s success.
Clavecillas revealed plans to accommodate around 500,000 visitors, based on previous festival records.
The festival recently kicked off with its grand opening salvo, offering a preview of the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan and the Dinagyang Ati Tribe Competition.
Clavecillas promised an even more spectacular showcase during the main events on January 25-26, 2025.
“Expect an even grander experience this time,” she said.
Celebrated for its vibrant costumes, high-energy performances, and strong community engagement, the Dinagyang Festival is one of the Philippines’ premier cultural events.
Over the years, the festival has received numerous accolades, including the Asia-Pacific Folklore Festival of 2024 at the Asia Festival Awards in Pattaya, Thailand, and Best Festival in the Visayas at the 2024 Philippine LEAF Awards.
It was also recognized as the Best Tourism Event by the Association of Tourism Officers in the Philippines (ATOP) for three consecutive years (2006-2008).
During the pandemic, the festival’s resilience earned it the Grand Winner for Best Tourism Practice at ATOP’s Pearl Awards in 2021 and the Best Cultural Festival Award in the City Category in 2022. Its innovative digital edition in 2020 was also honored with ATOP’s Best Tourism Event Award.
This year’s theme, “Buhi nga Pagtuo sa Kinabuhi sang mga Ilonggo” (Living Faith in the Lives of Ilonggos), highlights the celebration of faith, culture, and community.
The month-long festivities promise a memorable experience for participants and spectators. Updates on schedules and activities are available on the official Iloilo Dinagyang Festival Facebook page.
