THE Kasadya sa Diyandi street dancing and merrymaking competition, a highlight of Iligan City’s annual Diyandi festival, was conducted Saturday.
About 10 contingents from Lanao del Norte, Misamis Oriental and Iligan City joined the event, which honored the city's patron, Saint Michael the Archangel.
The contingents marched and danced through city streets, passing judging stations before a final showdown at the Anahaw Amphitheater.
Each group displayed their talents through colorful choreography, music and cultural themes.
Barangay Buru-un from Iligan City was named champion, winning P1 million. First runner-up was Barangay Gusa in Cagayan de Oro City, winning P700,000, and Iligan City East National High School in Sta. Filomena took second runner-up, winning P500,000.
Other special awards included Best in Street Dancing and Best in Diyandi for Barangay Buru-un. Barangay Ditucalan won Best in Skrima/Batalya, and Barangay Gusa in Cagayan de Oro City won Best in M'ranaw, Higaonon, Storyline and Musicality.
City Mayor Frederick W. Siao called the Diyandi festival the “biggest, longest, and grandest tri-culture festival in the Philippines.”
“Karon atong ipakita sa tibook kalibutan nga ang Iligan usa ka cultural melting pot diin ang Kristiyano, Muslim, ug Higaonon nagkahiusa sa sayaw, sa musika ug sa tradisyon,” Siao said.
The street dancing competition is a way of promoting the culture and tourism of Iligan, the mayor said, adding that the festival is also a symbol of unity.
“Just like our patron, Señor San Miguel the Archangel, let us continue to trust that good will always triumph over evil,” Siao said.
