Dinagyang is one of the most spectacular festivals in the Philippines. It is both religious and cultural festival showcasing the rich heritage, colorful history, devotion, and fun-loving spirit of the Ilonggos. The Catholic Ilonggos celebrate in honor of Senyor Santo Niño and also to commemorate the arrival in Panay of the Malay settlers. It is said that the Atis sold the island to the Malay settlers.
I was lucky to have witnessed partial highlight of Dinagyang 2015 -. Kasadyahan regional cultural contest and Ati-ati tribes competition- was held on Jan. 24 2014. (The main highlight was on Jan 25. )
Even the shopping malls are adorned by manequins wearing Ati costume.
For the cultural contest. five (5) stages or viewing platforms were set up in various points .
1) Freedom Grandstand, (2) Iloilo Provincial Capitol, (3) Delgado-Mabini Streets, (4) Quezon-Ledesma Streets., and (5) Iznart Street. One can buy a ticket have access to the performance stage.
However, outside the stages, everyone can still see and enjoy the colorful costumes, hear the thundering drum beats, and feel the energetic dances of the performers. The tribes perform some street dance routines along the entire parade route though some participants just walk because of fatigue.
Since vehicles are prohibited to enter the parade route and nearby streets during the festivities, everybody has to walk within the city proper. There are lots of food vendors as well as those who sell souvenir items along the streets.
If you want to be near the street dancing competition, there are several hotels nearby. We stayed at Circle Inn which is stone throw away from the Iznart stage. Check google map for other hotels near the parade route. Circle Inn is strategically located as it is near a supermarket, public market, public transportation, university and walking distance to Ortiz Wharf if you want to go to Guimaras Island.
Love to be back !
Guimaras Island Hopping Part 1
No comments:
Post a Comment