ILOILO CITY — Thousands of Ilonggos filled SM City Iloilo on Wednesday night for the grand launch of the 2026 Dinagyang Festival, a vibrant kickoff marked by thundering drums, elaborate costumes and a renewed focus on the region’s natural heritage.
The event followed the festival’s national unveiling in Metro Manila over the weekend and set the stage for January’s annual celebration honoring Señor Santo Niño.
Festival and Artistic Director Eric Divinagracia told The Associated Press that next year’s performances will draw inspiration from the Visayas’ endemic plants and animals.
“It is a recognition that we are stewards of God’s creation. That is why we celebrate the flora and fauna of our Visayan heritage,” Divinagracia said.
The 2026 theme, “Bugay sang Ginoo, Bugal sang mga Ilonggo” — translated as “Blessings from God, Pride of the Ilonggos” — underscores gratitude, artistic innovation and Ilonggo resilience.
Mayor Raisa Treñas, addressing the crowd, described Dinagyang as a cornerstone of local identity.
“It is a celebration of our faith, creativity, and resilience. It presents to the world who we are: a people of joy, devotion, and excellence,” Treñas said. She credited the festival’s growing prominence to community devotion and partnerships.
Seven tribes were officially presented for the Dinagyang Tribes Competition: Tribu Taga-Baryo of Barangay Bo. Obrero, Lapuz; Tribu Ilonganon of Jalandoni Memorial High School; Tribu Bulawanon sang Molo of Molo District; Tribu Salognon of Jaro National High School; Tribu Paghidaet of La Paz National High School; Tribu Pan-ay of Fort San Pedro National High School; and Tribu Ilayanhon of Graciano Lopez Jaena Elementary School.
Six groups were also introduced for the Sadsad sa Calle Real street dancing event: Tribu Parianon, Tribu Yrong-Yrong, Tribu Aninipay, Tribu Familia Sagasa, Tribu Molave and Tribu Panaad.
The evening concluded with a ceremonial drumbeating led by Treñas, Iloilo Provincial Administrator Raul Banias, Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc. President Angel De Leon, SM City Iloilo assistant mall manager Rychmark Trinidad and Rev. Fr. Nelson Zerda, parish priest of San Jose Parish Placer.
