Defying the dual challenges of Tropical Storm Ada and the ongoing sugar crisis, Cadiz City in Negros Occidental roared to a triumphant close as it concluded its 52nd Dinagsa Festival “with a bang.”
The 10-day festivities (January 16–26) culminated in the traditional Ati Dance Competition on Sunday, January 25. The city streets surged with life as the rhythmic beat of drums and high-energy choreography paid homage to Señor Santo Niño de Cadiz, the city’s patron and protector for over five decades.
The festival’s signature event, “Lamhitanay sa Dalan”—frequently dubbed “colorful street chaos”—drew a massive crowd of approximately 300,000 revelers. The sea of people shared a singular, joyful goal: to be smeared with vibrant, non-toxic paints.
“It was a peaceful, colorful, and beautiful street chaos found only in the Philippines,” said Cadiz Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr. “It mirrors a formidable, peerless unity.”
Escalante praised the electrifying performance of Sicablun Quatro, which reigned supreme as the back-to-back champion of the street dance competition.
A powerhouse team representing Barangays Sicaba, Luna, and Zone 4, the group wowed the audience with a world-class performance, taking home the ₱200,000 grand prize.
The celebration also heralded a new era of royalty on January 23 with the crowning of Assia Jean Ur-Rehman as the 52nd Dinagsa Queen. Recognized as a true “beauty with brains,” Ur-Rehman bested nine other hopefuls to become the new face of Cadiz.
Proving that Dinagsa is a festival for all, the city hosted the 28th Paralympiada on January 23. This “fiesta for kids with special needs” has remained a cornerstone of Cadiz’s commitment to inclusivity for nearly 30 years.
Centering on the festival theme, “One Faith. One Child. One Colorful Celebration,” the Paralympiada allowed young athletes to take center stage through sports and cultural camaraderie.
“The Paralympiada has added true color to our celebration,” Mayor Escalante reflected. “There is no better way to honor the pureness of the Holy Child than through the spirit of these special young athletes.”
The event also gained legislative momentum as Rep. Alfredo “Thirdy” Marañon III (Neg. Occ., 2nd District) pledged to initiate a regional Paralympiada following the establishment of the Negros Island Region (NIR). The initiative aims to expand opportunities for children with special needs across the newly formed region.
Reflecting on the 10-day event, Escalante described the 52nd Dinagsa as more than just a success—it was a milestone that created lasting positive impacts and a new batch of unforgettable memories for Cadiznons and visitors alike.*