BACOLOD City – The streets of Cadiz City burst into life as the city capped its 52nd Dinagsa Festival with “Lamhitanay sa Dalan,” transforming major roads into a sea of color, rhythm, and shared joy despite weather threats from Tropical Storm “Ada” and the lingering impact of the sugar crisis.
Dubbed a “colorful street chaos,” Lamhitanay sa Dalan drew an estimated 300,000 revelers who took part in the tradition of smearing one another with non-toxic colored paint—an expression of unity, faith, and celebration deeply rooted in Cadiznon culture.
The activity marked the culmination of the 10-day festivities held from January 16 to 26 in honor of Señor Santo Niño de Cadiz, the city’s revered provider and protector for more than five decades.
The celebration reached its peak during the Ati Dance Competition on Sunday, January 25, as drumbeats echoed through the streets and dancers energized the crowd with powerful, synchronized performances.
Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr. described Lamhitanay sa Dalan as a uniquely Filipino experience that reflects the strong bond among Cadiznons.
“It was a peaceful, colorful, and beautiful street chaos—only in the Philippines,” Escalante said, adding that it “mirrors a formidable unity—peerless, therefore.”
Adding to the street revelry was the commanding performance of Sicablun Quatro, which emerged as back-to-back champion of the Dinagsa street dance competition. Composed of dancers from Barangays Sicaba, Luna, and Zone 4, the group captivated audiences with what officials described as a world-class, high-energy routine.
The team took home the P200,000 grand prize.
Earlier in the festivities, Assia Jean Ur-Rehman was crowned Dinagsa Queen 2026 on January 23, besting nine other candidates. Dubbed a “beauty and brain,” Ur-Rehman now joins the new faces representing Cadiz City across Negros Island.
Beyond the vibrant street celebrations, the festival also underscored inclusivity with the staging of the 28th Paralympiada on January 23. A long-running and meaningful component of Dinagsa, the Paralympiada is dedicated to children with special needs, giving them a platform to shine through sports, cultural activities, and fellowship.
For nearly three decades, the event has symbolized Cadiz City’s commitment to inclusivity, in line with this year’s festival theme: “One Faith. One Child. One Colorful Celebration.”
Mayor Escalante emphasized the deeper meaning of the activity, noting how the young athletes embody the spirit of the Santo Niño.
“Indeed, the Paralympiada has added color to our celebration. With the image of our patron, Señor Santo Niño de Cadiz, there is no better way to describe Him than through the pureness of special kid athletes,” he said.
Meanwhile, Negros Occidental 2nd District Representative Alfredo “Thirdy” Marañon III announced plans to push for a regional Paralympiada following the establishment of the Negros Island Region, aimed at expanding opportunities for children with special needs and strengthening inter-LGU cooperation.
Overall, Escalante described the 52nd Dinagsa Festival as more than a success, saying it created lasting, positive impacts on the lives of Cadiznons and visitors alike.
“It formed another batch of memories—hard to forget,” he said, as the colors of Lamhitanay sa Dalan slowly faded from the streets but remained vivid in the hearts of those who joined the celebration./PN
