By Mariela Angella Oladive
For the first time, Calinog showcased the Suguidanon epics in a dance drama competition on Feb. 1, transforming centuries-old narratives into a theatrical spectacle.
This marked a significant evolution in the Hirinugyaw-Suguidanonay Festival, as organizers separated its two signature performances—Suguidanon and Hirinugyaw—to give each tradition its own spotlight.
Bringing the Epic to the Stage
Festival Director Wilfredo Aviador Jr. described the move as a milestone, ensuring that both the community’s epic heritage and devotion to the Santo Niño were properly honored.
“By separating these two iconic performances, we gave each their due prominence—allowing us to celebrate both our epic heritage and deep devotion to the Santo Niño in their full glory,” he said.
Sangguniang Bayan Member Mayjan Paul Hurtada, chair of the Committee on Tourism, explained that the new format aimed to bring the Suguidanon epics to life in a more engaging and visually immersive way.
“We wanted to highlight the Suguidanon epics and showcase their stories to our community and spectators. For this staging, we focused on Books 1–8, adapting them into a theatrical production. Presenting them with stage effects, lighting, and visual enhancements makes the storytelling more captivating,” Hurtada told Daily Guardian.
He added that the performances were based on the transcriptions of the epics by Dr. Alicia Magos, professor emeritus at the University of the Philippines Visayas.
Magos, along with associate researcher Anna Razel Ramirez, collaborated with the late Manlilikha ng Bayan (National Living Treasure) Federico Caballero, an epic chanter and cultural bearer of the Sulod-Bukidnon tribe in Central Panay, to document and preserve the Suguidanon narratives.
Their efforts ensured that the stories of legendary heroes, gods, and mythical adventures remained alive for future generations.
Eight groups joined the competition, including one from an upland barangay that participated for the first time.
However, this group did not compete in Hirinugyaw the next day, which featured the same seven tribes.
“Suguidanon focuses on pre-colonial and indigenous traditions, which are rooted in animist beliefs. Hirinugyaw, now in its 35th year, celebrates our devotion to Señor Santo Niño. That’s why we held them separately,” Hurtada explained.
The performances blended dance, movement, and storytelling, bringing the epics to the stage.
Hurtada noted that the productions were well-received and expressed hope that more private schools and stakeholders would join in the future to make the event a more inclusive community celebration.
Hirinugyaw Highlights Faith and Devotion
On Feb. 2, the festival shifted to Hirinugyaw, a tribal dance competition honoring the Señor Santo Niño.
Competing groups showcased faith-inspired performances, combining dance, music, and elaborate costumes.
Mayor Francisco L. Calvo emphasized the festival’s growth and importance in preserving local culture.
“We carefully organized and prepared this event. We enhanced it and incorporated special attractions like a fireworks and drone show. We are expecting around 30,000 attendees. We will continue holding these performances separately in the future. If this year’s festival is grand, we will strive to make it even bigger next year,” he said.
The mayor also assured festivalgoers of strict safety measures and confirmed a ₱365,000 subsidy per competing tribe.
The grand champion of both events received a ₱150,000 school project grant, along with a cash prize.
The Hirinugyaw-Suguidanonay Festival recently won first runner-up in the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan Tribes Competition at the Dinagyang Festival.
