As early as September loud beating of the drums can already be heard reverberating all over the city of Iloilo. This is in preparation for the annual celebration of the Dinagyang Festival. Dinagyang is a Hiligaynon term meaning “merry making”. And one of the highlights of the festival is the ati tribe competition.
On the fourth Sunday of January students from various schools and barangay pain themselves in dark brown and wear bahag and dance to the loud hypnotic drumbeating, much to the delight of the crowd.
During the tribal competition expect to see fast paced choreography, numerous costume changes and extravagant production design.
Laat year’s champion and Aliwan Fiesta 2013 grand winner Tribu Panayanon portrayed the panay bukidnon epic Hinilawod in a 5-minute dance routine. The group’s performance wowed the crowed and ultimately won the much coveted trophy.
Also confirmed to join this year are the contingents representing the Talakudong Festival of Tacurong City and Kalimudan Festival of Isulan Sultan Kudarat. The twi festivls will be performing during the Kasadyhan Regional Festival of Western Visayas. Check the schedule below:
January 24 Kasadyahan Regional festival of Western Visayas
January 25 Dinagyang ati tribe competition