Iloilo Dinagyang Festival: Beyond Fun. Beyond Fame. Beyond Borders.

The infamous Iloilo Dinagyang Festival just ended last January 22-24, 2016 with the theme "Beyond Fun. Beyond Fame. Beyond Borders." The three day event was filled with fun, laughter, and love. The continuous devotion of Ilonggos and devotees of Señor Santo Niño was overwhelming. Numerous events where simultaneously held. From the Mass and devotion mainly hosted in the San Agustin Church in Plaza Libertad, food festivals in downtown Iloilo, fireworks displays in the business districts, local band performances all over the city, party sites in every corner and endless merry making. The days and nights were full of enthusiasm and bonds made stronger by people. It was truly an event worth remembering.

This year, there were 10 participating Ati tribes coming from different National High Schools and Barangay within the city to compete for the Championship. All efforts could be seen in their meticulous art shown in their designs, costumes and props. They've painstakingly undertaken the task in performing to show to the world their love and devotion to Señor Santo Niño. Mostly, young high schoolers composed the Ati tribes. Despite the heat, dehydration and demand of performing five times, they would still pose for a smile for you despite their fatigue. It was definitely heart warming. I salute you! Viva! Viva! Viva! Señor Santo Niño!!!

Tribu Salognon

Drummers of Tribu Salognon

Tribu Dagatnon

Tribu Dagatnon

Tribu Paghidaet

Tribu Baybayanon

 Props of Tribu Baybayanon

 Tribu Panayanon

Viva! Viva! Viva! Señor Santo Niño!

Winners of the Tambor Trumpa Matsa Musika (January 22-Friday)
Elementary Level
Champion: Matias Elementary School
1st: Sambag Elementary School
2nd: Iloilo Central Elementary School
3rd: Arevalo Elementary School

High School Level
Champion: Iloilo National High School
1st: Dingle National High School

Winners of the Kasadyahan Festival (January 23-Saturday)
Champion: Tatusan of Antique
1st: Kasag of Banate
2nd: Bantayan of Guimbal
3rd: Pintaflores of San Carlos

Winners of the Ati Tribe Competition
Champion: Salognon
1st: Ilonganon
2nd: Pan-ay
3rd: Paghidaet
4th: Baybayanon

Imagine yourself dancing with thisheaddress.

Please don't forget the mandatory souvenir shot! :)