Cadiz roars as 52nd Dinagsa ends with a bang

Despite challenges – including weather threats from tropical storm Ada and the ongoing sugar crisis – Cadiz City roared with pride as it closed its 52nd Dinagsa Festival “with a bang.”

The 10-day festivities, held from Jan. 16 to 26, were highlighted by the traditional Ati Dance Competition on Sunday, Jan. 25, which brought Cadiz streets back to life with drumbeats and energetic dances meant to praise and honor Sto. Niño de Cadiz, the city’s revered provider and protector for more than five decades.

“Lamhitanay sa Dalan,” often referred to as the “colorful street chaos,” drew a crowd of around 300,000 revelers, all eager to be smeared with non-toxic colored paints.

“It was a peaceful, colorful, and beautiful street chaos – only in the Philippines,” said Cadiz Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr.

“It mirrors a formidable unity – peerless, therefore!”

Escalante also praised the spirited performance of Sicablun Quatro, which reigned supreme once again as back-to-back champion of the Dinagsa Festival’s street dance competition.

Sicablun Quatro, composed of dancers and warriors from Barangays Sicaba, Luna, and Zone 4, delivered a high-energy, world-class performance that wowed locals and tourists alike.

The group took home the PHP 200,000 grand prize.

Meanwhile, the coronation of Assia Jean Ur-Rehmam as the new Dinagsa Queen on Jan. 23 made waves across Negros Island, with many praising her as a true “beauty and brain.”

Ur-Rehmam, now among the most recognizable faces of Cadiz, bested nine other hopefuls to claim the coveted title.

The city also reinforced its commitment to inclusivity by hosting the 28th Paralympiada on Jan. 23 as part of the Dinagsa Festival.

Paralympiada, a fiesta for “kids with special needs,” has been one of the most meaningful and anticipated events of the Dinagsa calendar for nearly three decades.

The activity continues to highlight the abilities of children and youth with special needs through sports, cultural showcases, and moments of community camaraderie.

This year’s Paralympiada aligned with the festival’s theme: “One Faith. One Child. One Colorful Celebration.”

Escalante reflected on the emotional significance of the event, saying the special athletes embodied the essence of Dinagsa.

“Indeed, the Paralympiada has added color to our celebration. With the image of our patron, Señor Santo Niño de Cádiz, there is no better way to describe Him than through the pureness of special kid athletes,” Escalante said.

Negros Occidental 2nd District Rep. Alfredo “Thirdy” Marañon III pledged to initiate a regional Paralympiada, following the creation of the Negros Island Region.

The initiative aims to expand opportunities for children with special needs and strengthen cooperation among local governments and schools across the region.

Overall, Escalante described the 52nd Dinagsa Festival as beyond successful.

More importantly, he said it created a lasting positive impact on Cadiznons and revelers, leaving behind another set of unforgettable memories.