By Juliane Judilla
The 2025 Dinagyang Festival officially opened with a vibrant and colorful salvo at the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand on Friday, January 10. The event marked the start of the month-long celebration, which is expected to draw thousands of visitors and participants.
Eight competing tribes in the Ati Tribes Competition wowed the crowd with intricate choreography and stunning costumes. Their performances paid homage to Ilonggo warriors, street vendors and workers as unsung heroes, and Iloilo’s rich culinary culture.
The competing tribes included:
- Tribu Paghidaet (La Paz National High School)
- Tribu Salognon (Jaro National High School)
- Tribu Parianon (Molo District)
- Tribu Ilonganon (Jalandoni Memorial National High School)
- Tribu Pag-Asa Kang Manduryaw (Mandurriao District)
- Tribu Hangaway (Graciano Lopez Jaena Elementary School)
- Tribu Molave (Barangay San Rafael, Mandurriao District)
- Tribu Pan-Ay (Fort San Pedro National High School)
Aside from the Ati Tribes Competition, six other tribes showcased their skills in the “Sadsad sa Calle Real” competition, giving festival-goers a preview of the vibrant energy to come. These tribes included Tribu Panaad, Tribu Kalubihan, Tribu Familia Sagrada, Tribu Yrong Yrong, Tribu Aninipay, and Tribu Halimau.
Vice Mayor Jeffrey Ganzon, who attended the opening salvo, expressed pride in the festival’s significance to the Ilonggo identity.
“This annual celebration is not only a testament to our vibrant culture and resilience but also the enduring strength and spirit that define us as Ilonggos,” Ganzon said.
“This is not just a festival; this is who we are,” he added.
Now in its 2025 edition, the Dinagyang Festival continues to be a celebration of faith, culture, and resilience. The opening salvo has set the tone for a month of colorful parades, competitive events, and cultural showcases that highlight Iloilo’s heritage.
With its dynamic performances and meaningful themes, this year’s Dinagyang promises an unforgettable experience for locals and visitors alike.
