Two Iloilo festivals dominated the Aliwan Fiesta 2024, a prestigious competition that showcases the best festivals from across the Philippines. The Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo City was named the grand champion, while the Tultugan Festival in Maasin town, Iloilo secured second place.
Tribu Pan-ay, a group from Iloilo, clinched its eighth title at Aliwan Fiesta, making it the most successful contingent in the competition. The group also took home the Best in Costume award and the Bingo Plus Award, receiving a total of P1.5 million in cash prizes.
The Aliwan Fiesta featured 15 festivals, each highlighting unique traditions and stories from different regions of the Philippines. The event has been celebrating the country’s rich cultural heritage since 2003.
In addition to their awards, the Tultugan Festival of Maasin, Iloilo placed second in the street dance competition and Tugtog ng Aliwan, as well as receiving the Best Musical Accompaniment award. The festival is known for incorporating bamboo into its performances to showcase the municipality’s abundant bamboo supply.
Eric Divinagracia, the artistic director of the Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc., explained the concept behind Dinagyang’s winning performance, emphasizing the Ilonggos’ devotion to Sto. Niño. IFFI President Allan Ryan Tan commended the performers for their dedication and progress throughout the competition.
Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas praised the contingents from Iloilo for their success at the Aliwan Fiesta, highlighting the cultural significance of events like Dinagyang and Tultugan. Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. also congratulated the mayors of Iloilo City and Maasin for their leadership in promoting cultural heritage through these renowned festivals.
