Iloilo City–Iloilo Province had a triumphant run at the 2024 “Parada ng Kalayaan” held at the Quirino Grandstand on Wednesday, clinching the grand champion title.
Governor Arthur Defensor, Jr. personally received the prestigious trophy with the cash prize of P1 million presented by Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin Abalos, Jr. and National Historical Commission of the Philippines Chairperson Lisa Nakpil.
Iloilo entered an elaborate float titled “The Cry of Santa Barbara,” a pivotal moment in Philippine history. The float not only mesmerized the audience, but also resonated deeply with the essence of Filipino patriotism.
The performance included a captivating dance drama by students from Santa Barbara, which received thunderous applause from the crowd.
According to Abalos, Iloilo’s float stood out by capturing the “essence of being a Filipino.” He commended it for showcasing Filipino patriotism and embodying the bayanihan spirit. The float’s portrayal of these themes reflected the province’s rich historical and cultural heritage.
As the grand champion, Iloilo has set a high standard for future celebrations, inspiring other provinces to highlight their unique contributions to the rich tapestry of Philippine history.
Defensor and the people of Iloilo are now looking forward to further promoting their historical significance and cultural richness on both national and international stages.
This victory is not just a win for Iloilo, but a celebration of the indomitable Filipino spirit that continues to inspire and unite the nation, according to the governor.
