ILOILO City – The world-renowned Dinagyang Festival once again brought honor and pride to the Philippines, captivating audiences at both the World Expo in Osaka, Japan and the 127th Philippine Independence Day celebration at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila.
This year’s Dinagyang champion, Tribu Paghidaet from La Paz National High School, represented Iloilo City and the Philippines at the Osaka World Expo 2025, while first runner-up Tribu Pan-ay from Fort San Pedro National High School performed during the Parada ng Kalayaan in Manila.
Tribu Paghidaet wowed audiences with several performances at the West Pop-up Stage of the World Expo. In one unforgettable moment, a mostly Japanese crowd ignored the pouring rain and stayed, dancing with the performers throughout the 40-minute show — proof of Dinagyang’s magnetic cultural energy.
The concept of Dinagyang’s performance at the expo, titled “Hinabol nga Kabuhi” (Weaving Life), symbolized the weaving of Filipino and Japanese lives through shared celebration. According to the Iloilo Dinagyang Festival page, this theme resonates with the 2025 World Expo’s spirit of unity — using the rhythms and revelry of Dinagyang to highlight harmony and shared values between the two nations.
Meanwhile, Tribu Pan-ay mesmerized crowds at the Independence Day parade in Manila, earning cheers from President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., Cabinet secretaries, and thousands of onlookers.
The Tultugan Festival of Maasin, Iloilo — this year’s Kasadyahan Festival champion, one of the major events of Dinagyang — also captivated audiences with a dynamic and well-applauded performance during the celebration.
All three tribes delivered breathtaking presentations that showcased the rich cultural heritage and creative excellence of the Ilonggo people. Their high-energy choreography, thunderous drumbeats, and elaborate props earned widespread acclaim from both local and international spectators.
Among those who expressed admiration was First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, who extended her gratitude and congratulations to Mayor Jerry P. Treñas and the entire Iloilo Dinagyang team through a heartfelt video message.
“You guys really put on a show!” the First Lady said. “All the dancers, the props — everything was beautiful. I was there cheering you on. You made it — you made our day. You made our Independence Day celebration.”
Mayor Treñas responded with deep gratitude, saying the recognition affirms Iloilo City’s continued efforts to promote culture and the arts on both national and international platforms.
“This is a shining moment for Iloilo City and for Dinagyang,” he said. “We are deeply honored to have taken part in both historic events representing not just our city, but the heart and soul of the Filipino people. Our performers have once again shown that Ilonggo excellence shines on both national and global stages.”
The city mayor added that it is a tremendous honor, not just for Iloilo City, but for the entire nation.
The Dinagyang performances are part of Iloilo City’s broader commitment to cultural diplomacy, tourism promotion, and international engagement. As a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, Iloilo continues to lead the way in championing creativity, inclusivity, and cultural preservation at home and abroad.
“The loud cheers and applause they received from the audience in Japan speak volumes of how our culture and traditions can resonate across borders. This moment strengthens our resolve to continuously promote Ilonggo excellence and cultural pride around the world,” the city mayor added.
With its powerful presence in two major international and national events, Dinagyang further cements its status as one of the Philippines’ premier cultural showcases — and a source of immense pride for every Ilonggo./PN
