The Dinagyang Festival’s 2027 edition is set to return its Tribes Competition and judging areas to the streets of Iloilo City Proper, Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc. (IFFI) Chairman Judgee Peña confirmed.
In a radio interview, Peña said the IFFI aims to restore the festival’s traditional activities in the city center.
“Gusto namon nga ibalik ang naandan nga mga aktibidad sa Iloilo City Proper sa tion sang Dinagyang Festival,” he said.
Peña added that the judging areas could expand to four or five, following a carousel-style parade format, and discussions are ongoing with Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas to determine the best setup.
The decision comes after public feedback noted the absence of banderitas during the 2026 festival, which some considered a missed element of the celebration.
“The sponsors themselves decided not to put up banderitas this year, considering it a distraction to pedestrians,” Peña explained.
He stressed that IFFI continues to listen to public feedback to ensure the festival remains one of the country’s premier cultural events.
“Indi pa sigurado ang plano, apang tinguhaan namon nga maplastar ini para sa mas manami nga Dinagyang Festival,” Peña said.
Meanwhile, Iloilo Governor Toto Defensor expressed support for the move to return the festival to its traditional street route.
He noted that while the sports complex offers a spacious venue and seating, ticketed access limits viewership for many spectators.
“Mas angayan kag nagakaangay nga ara ang festivals sa kalye upod ang mga tawo,” Defensor said, emphasizing the unique energy and atmosphere of a street festival compared to a closed stadium.
The governor also clarified that the provincial government will align the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan competition route with the Dinagyang Ati tribes’ rotation.
He further commended Mayor Treñas, IFFI, local government units, Capitol employees, the PNP, and the Church for the smooth execution of the 2026 Dinagyang Festival.
