EVERY January, the streets of Iloilo City burst into life with the dazzling colors and pulsating beats of the Dinagyang Festival. Beyond the spectacle, however, lies a deeper story of faith, sacrifice, and devotion to Senior Santo Niño — a story embodied by the warriors who bring the festival to life.
For these performers, the Dinagyang Festival is a spiritual journey, a celebration of gratitude, and a way to honor their unwavering devotion.
A Legacy of Devotion
Kenith Keehong Madison, 39, is a seasoned dancer from Mandurriao district with an unparalleled record of 22 consecutive years in the Dinagyang Ati Tribe Competition.
Starting at just 17 years old, Kenith has performed for numerous tribes, including Silak, Paghidaet, Atub-atob, Pag-asa, and Dagyaw. Today, he dances with Tribu Pag-asa Kang Mandurriao.
For Kenith, dancing is a manifestation of his faith.
“My devotion to Senior Santo Niño is the reason I keep going,” Kenith shares. “Despite my age and occasional exhaustion, I know this is my way of giving back.”
Kenith credits his sacrifices and prayers to Senior Santo Niño for the blessings he has received.
“After every Dinagyang Festival, I notice my prayers are answered. I’ve been blessed with good health, stable work, and a happy family. These are things money can’t buy,” he explains.
Kenith’s devotion extends beyond the competition. He actively participates in other religious activities during the festival, such as the fluvial parade and the religious sadsad.
“The preparation is tiring, but it’s a small price to pay for the immense joy and blessings I receive,” he says.
From Challenges to Blessings
For Daryl Sarsowa Alapide, 26, from Barangay Zamora in the City Proper, dancing in the Dinagyang Festival has been life-changing.
A warrior of Tribu Pan-ay of Fort San Pedro National High School for 11 years and now its squad leader, Daryl reflects on how joining the festival transformed his life.
“Our area used to struggle with poverty and illegal drugs. Without Dinagyang, I might have taken a different path,” Daryl admits. “Dancing saved me and gave me a purpose.”
Through his devotion to Senior Santo Niño, Daryl has experienced countless blessings.
“Since I started dancing, I’ve noticed that my family and I rarely get sick. It’s like a shield of protection,” he shares.
Despite graduating from college and holding a stable job, Daryl remains committed to Tribu Pan-ay.
“This has become a yearly devotion for me. From October to January, I dedicate my time to Senior Santo Niño,” he says.
A Yearly Commitment
Another passionate devotee is Dale John Juano, 22, from Barangay Bo. Obrero, La Paz district. For the past 11 years, he has performed in the Dinagyang Festival, saying it has become an integral part of his life.
“It’s my panata (vow) to Senior Santo Niño,” Dale says. “Every year, I pray for peace, good health, and happiness. Joining the festival makes my year complete.”
Currently the squad leader of Tribu Hangaway, Dale has also danced for Tribu Obrero and participated in the novel Dinagyang ILOmination, representing the City Proper and Mandurriao district.
For Dale, winning isn’t the goal.
“What matters is dancing from the heart and showing my devotion to Senior Santo Niño,” he explains.
Faith in Motion
Through the years, these Dinagyang warriors have not only honed their skills in various dance forms like hip-hop, Latin, and folk but have also mastered the unique movements that define Ati Tribe performances. What sets their dances apart is their profound focus on devotion.
Dinagyang is a celebration of faith and resilience. For Kenith, Daryl, Dale, and countless others, their sacrifices, prayers, and dedication to Senior Santo Niño inspire the lively performances that captivate audiences. Behind every beat of the drum and every graceful move lies a heart full of gratitude and a soul deeply connected to their faith.
As the Dinagyang Festival continues to thrive, its warriors show how devotion can transform lives, inspire hope, and bring people together in celebration of the divine./PN
