Banaag shines brightest at Dinagyang ILOmination

By Mariela Angella Oladive

The Banaag Festival of Anilao, Iloilo, was crowned champion of the Dinagyang ILOmination: Festival of Lights on Jan. 23, winning PHP 500,000 and a trophy for its standout performance in lighting, music, and overall production design.

The Banaag Festival also swept the special awards, earning PHP 10,000 per category for Best in Performance, Best in Music, Best in Lighted Costume Design, Best in Lighted Production Design, Best in Light Designer, Best in Lighting Design, Best in Costume Designer, Best in Production Designer, and Best in Musical Director.

The Zamboanga Hermosa Festival of Zamboanga City finished as first runner-up, receiving PHP 300,000 and a trophy. It also won awards for Best in Choreography and Best in Choreographer.

The Povvurulun Afi Festival of Tuguegarao City placed second runner-up, earning PHP 200,000 and a trophy.

The Pandang Gitab Festival of Oriental Mindoro placed third runner-up, taking home PHP 100,000 and a trophy. It also clinched the Best in Street Performance and the People’s Choice Award.

The ILOmination competition, one of the major highlights of the Dinagyang Festival 2026, featured illuminated performances inspired by flora and fauna.

The nighttime event drew large crowds and added a vibrant visual spectacle to the Dinagyang celebrations.