BY MA. THERESA LADIAO
ILOILO City – The opening salvo of the Dinagyang Festival 2025 yesterday, January 10, has set the stage for an unforgettable series of events, with excitement building up as the festivities unfold.
In a Panay News exclusive interview, Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc. (IFFI) President Allan Ryan Tan shared his thoughts on the spectacular start to the festival, describing it as a celebration that felt more like the full Dinagyang experience rather than just an opening act.
“Ang opening salvo kagina daw indi na opening salvo but daw Dinagyang na gid nga wala lang naka-costume,” Tan remarked. “Makita naton nga indi man kita mahuya sa ginhatag naton sa schools nga subsidy kay ginpakita gid nila ang effort.”
The IFFI president highlighted the dedication and effort shown by participating schools, noting that despite having only three barangays participating, they demonstrated remarkable unity and enthusiasm, ensuring the festival’s vibrant and inclusive spirit.
“Sa aton nga Dinagyang, maski may tatlo kita ka barangay, they prove nga they are equally as good sa mga schools,” he added, emphasizing the strong sense of community and participation that defines the festival.
This year’s Dinagyang Festival promises even more excitement, especially with the grand finale taking place at the Freedom Grandstand, the main judging area, on January 26.
“This will be very exciting, especially sa Freedom Grandstand naton nga judging area. Kay dira gid aton finale,” Tan said, hinting at a thrilling conclusion to the competition.
Among the top contenders for this year’s Ati tribes crown are two formidable tribes — Tribu Parianon of Molo District and Tribu Pan-ay of Fort San Pedro National High School.
“Sa Dinagyang may two champions kita nga ginalantaw, ang Tribu Parianon kag Pan-ay, so balantayan gid,” Tan shared.
This year’s Ati tribes competition features eight tribes. Aside from Tribu Parianon and Tribu Pan-ay, six other tribes are Tribu Paghidaet of La Paz National High School, Tribu Salognon of Jaro National High School, Tribu Ilonganon of Jalandoni Memorial National High School, Tribu Pag-asa kang Manduryaw of Mandurriao district, Tribu Hangaway of Graciano Lopen Jaena Elementary School, and Tribu Molave of Barangay San Rafael, Mandurriao./PN
