LOVE took center stage during the Dinagyang Festival 2025 “Pamukaw” as an unexpected proposal captured the hearts of the crowd. Against the backdrop of the historic San Jose de Placer Parish, an Ilongga said yes to a life-changing question from her Dinagyang warrior boyfriend on December 16, 2024.
Jaz Mar Dongeto, 28, a dedicated member of Tribu Salognon, and Blessa Mae Alavanzas, 24, share a love story deeply intertwined with the Dinagyang Festival. Jaz recalled their serendipitous meeting in 2016 during the practices for Tribu Pan-ay at Fort San Pedro National High School, where he was a dance master.
“During practices, there were sweet moments that happened, and that was where it all began,” Jaz shared.
Fast forward to 2025, their relationship has stood the test of time, blossoming over eight years of love, faith and devotion.
For Jaz, the decision to propose during the Pamukaw was a heartfelt homage to the festival that shaped his life and their relationship.
“Since I grew up with Dinagyang, from 2010 up to now, it was already in my mind that the time would come when I would propose in public, in front of a large crowd. I wanted to be a Dinagyang choreographer, but that dream was redirected when I met her. I never let go of my dream of proposing during the opening salvo or Pamukaw,” Jaz revealed with emotion.
Blessa, for her part, described the hurdles they faced as a couple and how those challenges solidified their bond.
“We encountered a lot of challenges, and because of those challenges, we learned and proved to each other that we really love each other,” she said.
Dinagyang has been more than just a festival for the couple; it has been the cornerstone of their love story.
Jaz emphasized its significance, saying, “I am a devotee, and a lot of miracles have happened to us.”
Blessa echoed this sentiment, adding, “We got to know each other because of Dinagyang; that is why Dinagyang is always important and memorable to us.”
When asked how Dinagyang mirrors their relationship, Jaz responded with the poignant words from a cherished Ilonggo song: “Kay sa tanan nga panahon, ikaw ang palanggaon.”
This heartfelt line resonated with the festival’s theme, “Buhi Nga Pagtuo Sa Kinabuhi sang Mga Ilonggo,” encapsulating the enduring love, faith and devotion shared not just by the couple but also by the Ilonggos.
As for their plans post-proposal, the couple is taking things one step at a time.
“The wedding hasn’t been fully planned yet, but we are preparing for it. There’s no exact date yet,” Blessa shared with a hopeful smile.
The proposal has become a testament to how the Dinagyang Festival not only celebrates faith and culture but also nurtures personal connections that last a lifetime. For Jaz and Blessa, Dinagyang will forever be the backdrop of their love story — a story that started with devotion and continues to thrive, guided by faith and the promise to love each other through all seasons./PN
