‘Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan’ opening salvo set today

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

Festivities of the different towns of the province will take center stage for the opening salvo of Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan today, January 5.

“The Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan is a fun, foodie, friendly festival of festivals […] This is cross section of the festivals of the province,” said Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. in a press conference.

The cultural contest to be hosted by the provincial government for the first time will commence with a holy mass at 1:30 p.m. at San Jose de Placer Church.

Selected performances from the nine competing tribes can be viewed at the Freedom Grandstand after the mass.

The tribes will then parade to the Iloilo Provincial Capitol where all competing tribes will showcase their more grandiose performances for the Dinagyang Festival.

The nine tribes participating in the competition include Katagman Festival of Oton, Saad Festival of Leganes, Pantat Festival of Zarraga, Cry of Jelicuon Festival of New Lucena, Kaing Festival of Leon, Tultugan Festival of Maasin, Hirinugyaw-Suguidadonay Festival of Calinog, Banaag Festival of Anilao, and Kasag Festival of Banate.

The opening salvo will also include activities such as the “Magsinadya Kita” Community Dance and a foam party at the Capitol grounds.

The Iloilo Provincial Capitol is also to unveil its Dinagyang-themed lights.

“Indi pa na siya kumpleto pero maayo gid nga i-santu natun siya sa opening salvo para we can see the adjusted lights,” Defensor said.

As for the concerns about the ongoing power outage affecting Panay Island, Defensor said “We have a backup.”

“Light or dark. Rain or shine,” he added.

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas previously said he is looking forward to a “grander” celebration with the provincial government taking the lead.

“For me, it’s indeed the time, now more than ever, to level up our meaningful collaborations as one Iloilo, bound by our people, resources, faith, culture, and tradition; take a collective stride forward; and bring the city and province to greater heights,” he added.