ILOILO CITY (PIA) - - Foreign dignitaries are expected to attend the highlights of this year’s Dinagyang Festival in this city on January 22.

As of Jan. 3, based on the report from the Iloilo City Public Information Office, nine foreign diplomats have confirmed to witness the Tribes competition at the Freedom Grandstand on January 22.

The diplomats include Her Excellency (H.E) Xiomara Perez Rodriguez, Embassy and Consulate General of the Republic of Panama; His Excellency (H.E.) Agus Widjojo of the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia; H.E. Borhan Uddin of the Embassy of Bangladesh; H.E. Tull Traisorat of the Royal Thai Embassy; and H.E. Folakemi Ibidunni Akinleye of the Nigerian Embassy.

brighter, bolder and grander as the spectacular cultural presentation goes back to the streets after two years of being held virtually due to pandemic.

This year’s celebration’s theme centers on thanksgiving and devotion to the child Jesus for the protection during these trying times.

The major events include the Opening Salvo on Jan. 13; Miss Iloilo 2023 on Jan. 18; Dinagyang Food Festival from Jan. 19 to 22; Sto. Niño fluvial procession and Solemn foot procession on Jan. 20; Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan, Sponsors’ Mardi Gras, Grand Religious Sadsad, and Dinagyang Ilomination and Floats Parade of Lights on Jan. 21; and Feast Day of Señor Santo Niño De Cebu Concelebrated High Mass, Dinagyang sa Barangay Tribes Competition, and Dinagyang Awarding Ceremony on Jan. 22.

Dinagyang won back-to-back Best Tourism Festival Awards for 2020-2021 given by the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP). (JBG/Iloilo City PIO/laf/PIA6-Iloilo)