By Mariela Angella Oladive
The Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc. (IFFI) is considering the Iloilo Sports Complex as a new performance venue for the Dinagyang Festival 2026 Tribes Competition.
The proposal aims to accommodate more spectators while easing congestion in the downtown judging areas.
Dinagyang Festival artistic directors Professor Eric Divinagracia and Director Elvert Bañares said the plan was developed in response to feedback from the 2025 festival.
Under the proposal, morning performances would be held at Iloilo Freedom Grandstand and the Provincial Capitol, while afternoon performances would move to the Sports Complex in La Paz.
“We are looking into the possibility of holding the tribes competition in the Iloilo Sports Complex, but perhaps we should schedule it in the afternoon,” Divinagracia said.
He explained that in past editions, performers had to rehearse in the streets and proceed directly to the complex, which was physically taxing for dancers.
He emphasized that scheduling performances later in the day would allow participants to rest, with their health being a top priority.
Divinagracia also acknowledged the limited seating capacity at the current judging areas, which include Mabini-Delgado Street, Quezon-Ledesma Street, the Freedom Grandstand and the Capitol.
Concerns have been raised that the exclusivity of these venues reflects the festival’s increasing commercialization, favoring sponsors and VIPs over the general public.
This year, 2,400 seats at the Freedom Grandstand were reserved for city representatives, sponsors and special guests.
The provincial government made similar reservations at the Capitol.
Ticket prices for the two other judging areas were PHP2,500 for the gold tier and PHP2,000 for the silver tier, with each venue offering 1,000 seats.
These arrangements have fueled discussions about the need for a more inclusive festival experience.
Mayor Jerry Treñas defended the reserved seating, saying it recognizes individuals who have contributed to the city’s development.
To address accessibility concerns, the IFFI is exploring the use of a larger venue like the Sports Complex.
“We will listen to our dancers and the public to see if this is feasible,” Divinagracia said.
“Let’s continue to innovate and explore ways to democratize the festival.”
Bañares agreed, calling the sports complex an ideal space for accommodating larger audiences.
“People want to watch, and the sports complex is currently the venue that can accommodate more spectators,” he said.
“We’re presenting this idea to gather feedback and refine the festival’s approach.”
Divinagracia reiterated his call for public input and noted the importance of balancing aesthetics with functionality.
“Having a large audience and a smaller stage could impact the overall experience,” he said.
“There are pros and cons, and we still have about nine months to consider all factors carefully.”
The Dinagyang Festival is celebrated for its devotion to Señor Sto. Niño, colorful cultural displays and high-energy performances.
The festival recently earned international acclaim, winning two major awards from the International Festivals and Events Association (IFEA).
It was named Best Overall Entertainment Program at the Pinnacle Awards Asia 2025.
It also received the Best Dynamic Festival and Dancing Festival 2025 honors at the Festival Awards Asia.
These wins mark the first time the Philippines has received such recognition from both award-giving bodies.
Divinagracia and Bañares personally accepted the awards at the Gyeongju Hwabaek International Convention Center in South Korea.
