By Rjay Zuriaga Castor
Denmark Morana was only 16 years old when he first joined the Dinagyang Tribes competition. Since then, he has participated yearly as a dancer in several tribes, expressing his devotion to Señor Santo Niño, or the Child Jesus.
Morana, a resident of Bo. Obrero, Lapuz, is now with Tribu Hangaway of Graciano Lopez Jaena Elementary School. He began his journey with Tribu Taga-Barrio and later joined Tribu Pana-ad.
“I love dancing, and on top of that, this is my way of showing my devotion to Señor Santo Niño,” he said.
For Morana, the annual competition is more than just a contest. It is a sacred expression of gratitude and prayer.
The 26-year-old devotee said he prays for a complete family and a life free from illness.
Christopher Joquino, a 23-year-old freelance makeup artist, traces her devotion to Señor Santo Niño back to childhood. She recalled her mother regularly taking her to the San Jose Placer Parish Church, home to the replica of Señor Santo Niño de Cebú.
“This is my devotion because I can recall back in my younger days that my mom would bring me to the San Jose Placer Parish Church,” she said.
Joquino is currently with Tribu Pag-Asa Kang Manduryaw in the Mandurriao district, marking her second time joining the competition.
“The Señor Santo Niño showered me with so many unexpected blessings,” she said, emphasizing that the blessings have extended beyond her personal life.
Similarly, June Michael Juanillo, also from Tribu Pag-Asa Kang Manduryaw, has been participating in the tribe competition since 2008.
He began by carrying the image of Señor Santo Niño, later transitioned into being a drummer, and is now a warrior dancer.
“This is my way of praising the Señor Santo Niño, and dancing is truly my passion,” Juanillo said.
He shared that every time he performs in the Dinagyang Tribes competition, he experiences a deep sense of peace.
The dedication of Dinagyang warriors like Morana, Joquino, and Juanillo reflects their unwavering faith.
Months of rigorous training and practice prepare them to showcase their devotion through passionate performances, overcoming fierce competition and discipline.
