Dinagyang Tribes to Perform in Japan, Manila Events

By Mariela Angella Oladive

Two Dinagyang tribes are set to take center stage this June, carrying the pride of Iloilo City to both international and national audiences.

Tribu Paghidaet of La Paz National High School will perform at the Osaka World Expo 2025 in Japan, while Tribu Pan-ay of Fort San Pedro National High School will join the Parada ng Kalayaan in Manila for the 127th Philippine Independence Day celebration.

The Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc. (IFFI) confirmed the participation of the two tribes in a recent press conference, highlighting their preparation and significance as cultural representatives of Iloilo and the Philippines.

“This came as a surprise — maybe this is really our calling. We are proud and happy to send two of our best tribes to represent the country on these big stages,” said IFFI President Allan Ryan Tan.

Weaving Life in Osaka

Dinagyang 2025 champion Tribu Paghidaet will perform from June 7 to 12 at the Osaka Expo, bringing 15 performers and eight drummers.

Though limited in number due to stage size, the performance is designed to be visually and thematically impactful, with the theme Hinabol nga Kabuhi (Weaving Life).

“This is a different kind of Dinagyang. It’s tailored for a stage performance, not the usual street-based setup. But we are embracing the challenge and reimagining our approach while staying true to Dinagyang’s core,” said Festival Director Elvert Bañares.

The piece, conceptualized with fellow director Prof. Eric Divinagracia and other artists, weaves together the four elements—earth, wind, water and fire—as metaphors for life and stewardship.

The tribe’s warriors will embody the ancestral role of guardians of nature, a reflection of indigenous spirituality and modern environmental awareness.

“It’s almost a ritualistic performance. We acknowledge that we are stewards of the Earth. We live on this planet and must care for it. We celebrate that role,” said Divinagracia.

Tribe choreographer Brian Francisco said the performers were carefully selected for their attitude, skill and stage presence.

“It was challenging because we’re used to performing in the streets, but through collaboration, we were still able to put everything together — incorporating the four elements,” he said.

Independence Day Performance

Meanwhile, Tribu Pan-ay, this year’s first runner-up, is preparing a large-scale performance for Independence Day in Manila on June 12.

With a delegation of 300 that includes dancers, musicians, propsmen and staff, the tribe will join nine other festivals in the national parade.

Their performance carries the theme Ang Pagtuo Kahilwayan (Faith is Freedom), paying tribute to the Filipino people’s enduring struggle and resilience.

“We were only given two weeks to prepare,” said Bañares. “But we are accepting that challenge wholeheartedly.”

IFFI Executive Director Joyce Clavecillas confirmed that both groups are fully prepared.

“The visas have been released, flights and logistics are in place, and our artists are briefed and ready,” she said.

The June events are part of IFFI’s continued efforts to elevate Dinagyang on the global stage.

Another international trip is scheduled for New Zealand in November.

“We always remind the kids that they are not just dancers — they are ambassadors,” added Bañares.