ILOILO City – The 2024 edition of the “Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan” officially opened on Friday afternoon, Jan. 5, at the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand.
Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. of Iloilo province made the announcement during the Kasadyahan opening salvo.
The Iloilo provincial government is overseeing the Kasadyahan with the aim of promoting Iloilo’s tourism domestically and internationally.
During the opening salvo, nine competing tribes gave a sneak peak of their performances on Jan. 27. The Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc. (IFFI) praised these showcases.
Joyce Clavecillas, executive director of IFFI, expressed satisfaction, noting that they reflected the diverse cultures, products, and tourist attractions of the tribes’ towns.
“We are very happy. This is the first time we have a Kasadyahan opening salvo, and this activity will further enhance and ignite interest among visitors looking forward to the Dinagyang Festival,” said Clavecillas in a statement to Panay News.
Gilbert Marin, provincial tourism officer, welcomed the warm reception and expressed hope for a similar response from the public on the main event day, Jan. 27.
The competing Kasadyahan tribes are Katagman Festival of Oton, Saad Festival of Leganes, Pantat Festival of Zarraga, Cry of Jelicuon Festival of New Lucena, Kaing Festival of Leon, Tultugan Festival of Maasin, Hirinugyaw-Suguidanonay Festival of Calinog (2023 champion), Banaag Festival of Anilao, and Kasag Festival of Banate.
During the opening salvo, USWAG Ilonggo party-list’s Rep. Jojo Ang announced a P10-million infrastructure project for the town that will be declared the champion at Kasadyahan, in addition to the cash prizes allocated by the provincial government.
The winner will receive P500,000; the second placer, P350,000; third placer, P200,000; and consolation prizes of P50,000 for the non-winning tribes./PN
