Iloilo City launches Saot Ilonggo Festival

1 of 4

By Mariela Angella Oladive

In celebration of its 87th Charter Day, the Iloilo City Government, in partnership with the Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc. (IFFI), officially launched the Saot Ilonggo: Iloilo Traditional Folkdance Festival on July 12.

The festival aligns with this year’s theme, “Rise, Iloilo City: Remarkable Ilonggos Sustaining Excellence at 87,” and seeks to encourage educators to research and preserve authentic Ilonggo dances. It also aims to innovate and create new dances that reflect the city’s heritage and engage the youth in promoting cultural festivals.

“Our purpose is to create our own research folk dance. There are many subjects for research. Every district of our city has a story worthy of research,” said Festival Director Ramil Huyatid.

Huyatid highlighted potential topics for research, including the Feast of Candelaria, the all-male saints in Jaro district, the Sta. Ana Church with its all-female saints in Molo, the Chinese invasion in Molo, and the historical Calle Real.

The festival will feature dances identified by national artist for dance Francisca Reyes Aquino and other authorities, such as Paseo de Iloilo, La Jota San Joaquiña, Bucasoy, and Kuratza, which originated from Iloilo municipalities.

Mayor Jerry Treñas expressed his excitement for the festival, noting Iloilo’s unique character.

“Iloilo is known as the city where the past is always present. This is evident in our rich culture and heritage, architectural marvels, culinary delights, and way of life, reflecting a deep-rooted sense of pride and identity. However, there are aspects of Ilonggo culture and heritage that remain undiscovered, waiting to be unearthed and cherished by our younger generation,” he said.

Citing Newton’s first law of motion, Treñas emphasized the importance of proactive engagement with cultural heritage.

“We must tap into our curiosity and explore the depths of our heritage to truly appreciate its significance. The Saot Ilonggo Traditional Folk Dance Festival was conceived as a collaborative endeavor to safeguard our cultural legacy. This festival serves as a platform for us to rediscover our roots and craft our narrative,” he added.

IFFI President Allan Tan extended his gratitude to everyone involved in the initiative, acknowledging their efforts in bringing the Saot Ilonggo festival to fruition.

The festival, which will become a regular part of the Charter Day celebration every August, will feature a small competition during its initial presentation next month to introduce the event.