ILOILO City – This city is set to welcome a high-level mix of foreign diplomats and national leaders during the Dinagyang Festival, a turnout city officials say reflects the festival’s rising stature as both a cultural showcase and a platform for international engagement.
Leading the list of expected guests are ambassadors Lee Sang-hwa (South Korea), Andreas Michael Pfaffernoschke (Germany), David Hartman (Canada), and Endo Kazuya (Japan), along with Mayor Kevin J.T. Susuico (Hagat, Guam) and a representative from Taiwan.
Senators Bam Aquino and Bong Go are also slated to attend key festival events.
Mayor Raisa Treñas said the dignitaries are expected to witness the festival’s major highlights, Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan on January 24 and the Ati tribes competition on January 25. Some guests may also attend the ILOmination light performance showcase on January 23, depending on their schedules.
The mayor said the presence of ambassadors, senators, and international guests highlights Iloilo City’s expanding global ties and reinforces its image as a people-centered city anchored on culture and faith.
She added that many of the visiting diplomats represent partner embassies with existing exchange programs and collaborative projects with the city, making their participation both symbolic and strategic.
“Dinagyang is our way of sharing Iloilo’s soul with the world — our faith, culture, creativity, and hospitality,” Treñas said, noting that the city has prepared a special heritage and development tour for the guests to showcase Iloilo’s historic sites, cultural landmarks, and flagship projects.
Treñas stressed that hosting high-ranking local and foreign visitors during Dinagyang not only enhances the festival’s prestige but also strengthens Iloilo City’s position as a destination for tourism, investment, and international cooperation, while giving Ilonggos the opportunity to present their traditions on a global stage./PN
