Ilonggos staged “Pamukaw” (awakening) that showcased their resilience while battling the pandemic as it marked the official start of the 2023 Dinagyang Festival.
“After two years of celebrating Dinagyang in virtual platforms we are now back for a bigger and bolder and brighter celebration,” said Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas in his message during the program on Friday, Dec. 16.
“As we hold Dinagyangs 2023’s Pamukaw event, we send a message of hope and victory that after years of being in a pandemic, we are here, we are stronger and we are more resilient than ever,” he added.
Dinagyang, he said, is more than just an event as he underscored the true meaning of the festival – faith, devotion and expression of love.
The “pamukaw” started with a mass at the San Jose Parish Church and was followed by a short program where eight barangay tribes participating in the upcoming competition showed a glimpse of their respective performances.
“This pamukaw celebration is indeed a testament of our resilience, a proof of our triumph in overcoming one of life’s greatest adversaries, the Covid-19 health crisis. We are here today, we continue to thrive, ready to mark the start of the Dinagyang festivities because we strongly fought the battle,” said Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor in his message read by his wife Michelle Defensor.
Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc executive director Joyce Clavecillas, in a follow up interview, said that through the Pamukaw they would like to awaken the hearts of Ilonggos to be grateful to the Señor Santo Niño for whatever blessings and protection they received.PNA
