The streets of Iloilo City came alive on Monday morning, December 16, as eight competing tribes showcased their teaser performances during the much-anticipated ‘Pamukaw’—the ceremonial kick-off event of the Dinagyang Festival 2025.
Held in front of the San Jose de Placer Church and along key roads in the city proper, the event was led by the San Jose Parish Church and the Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc. It featured a short program before the tribes energized the crowd with their performances.
Among the participants were Tribu Paghidaet of La Paz National High School, Tribu Salognon of Jaro National High School, Tribu Parianon from Molo, Tribu Ilonganon of Jalandoni Memorial National High School, Tribu Pag-asa kang Manduryaw of Mandurriao, Tribu Hangaway of Graciano Lopez Jaena Elementary School, Tribu Molave of Mandurriao, and Tribu Pan-ay of Fort San Pedro National High School.
Adding a romantic twist to the festivities, a warrior from Tribu Ilonganon surprised the audience by proposing to his girlfriend during the event, making this year’s ‘Pamukaw’ event more unforgettable.
The highlight of the Dinagyang Festival remains the tribes’ dance competition, alongside various cultural and religious activities scheduled for January. As always, the celebration will center on devotion to Señor Sto. Niño, blending faith and culture in one of Iloilo City’s most beloved traditions.
