Iloilo Dinagyang Festival Crowned ‘Asia-Pacific Folklore Festival of 2024’

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By Mariela Angella Oladive

The Iloilo Dinagyang Festival has garnered international acclaim as the Asia-Pacific Folklore Festival of 2024 at the renowned Asia Festival Awards in Pattaya, Chonburi, Thailand, bringing honor to the city’s most celebrated tourism event.

This announcement was shared via the official Facebook page of the Iloilo Dinagyang Festival on Friday, March 1.

This accolade is particularly noteworthy as it represents the first time a Philippine festival has been recognized by the International Festival and Events Association (IFEA) since the association’s inception in 1956.

Delegates from the Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc. (IFFI), including President Mr. Allan Ryan Tan and Artistic Directors Eric Divinagracia and Elvert Bañares, accepted the award. They also engaged in a three-day conference and exhibition spanning three locations at the event.

Mayor Jerry P. Treñas took to Facebook to express his elation over the festival’s international acknowledgment.

“Our beloved Iloilo Dinagyang Festival has once again made a remarkable impression internationally. We are immensely proud to be hailed as the Asia-Pacific Folklore Festival of 2024 by the esteemed International Festival and Events Association (IFEA) – Asia at the Asian Festival Awards. This honor extends beyond our city to represent the entire Philippines,” he stated.

He credited this achievement to the hard work and enthusiasm of the IFFI team, coupled with the steadfast support of Iloilo’s residents.

Artistic Director Elvert Bañares conveyed his appreciation on social media, emphasizing the distinction this brings to the Ilonggo community and his pride in being a part of the delegation.

“The triumph of the City of Iloilo is a triumph for all Ilonggos and Filipinos. We are privileged to receive this honor. I am proud to serve our community and to be part of this delegation,” Bañares posted.

The Dinagyang Festival has consistently achieved recognition, including the title of Best Festival in the Visayas at the 2024 Philippine LEAF Awards and the 2022 Best Cultural Festival in the city category by the ATOP Pearl Awards.

Notably, the festival’s virtual edition in 2021 garnered praise as the Best Tourism Practice during the Pandemic Special Category.

In 2020, Dinagyang secured the top spot as the grand champion in the Best Tourism Event (Festival) as Contemporary/Nontraditional Expression category.

The International Festivals & Events Association (IFEA World), established in 1956 and initially known as the Festival Manager’s Association, serves as the leading support organization for festival and event professionals worldwide.

With a vision to globally unify the industry, IFEA promotes a positive societal impact through the power of celebration.

As the Iloilo Dinagyang Festival continues to exhibit the rich culture and dynamic spirit of Iloilo, it carves a significant place in history, inspiring communities with its exuberant celebration of heritage and solidarity.