Cadiz City in Negros Occidental celebrated the 2025 Dinagsa Festival, which concluded on January 26, attracting an impressive crowd of 500,000 participants. The festival, known for its vibrant street paint smearing event called ‘Lamhitanay sa Dalan,’ not only brought joy but also significant economic benefits, with businesses raking in an estimated PHP1 billion in revenue, according to Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr.
The Dinagsa Festival, Cadiz’s take on the Ati-Atihan celebration, has grown into a major tourist draw in northern Negros. The festival’s name, derived from the Hiligaynon word ‘dinagsa’ meaning ‘flocked,’ commemorates the historic landing of 12 sperm whales on May 7, 1967. Mayor Escalante praised the festival’s evolution into a wholesome, friendly, and clean event, emphasizing its community spirit.
This year’s festival saw a notable increase in foreign attendance, with foreigners making up about 80% of the grandstand audience, a significant rise from previous years. The mayor highlighted the locals’ welcoming attitude, stating, ‘The locals give way to the visitors; that’s the spirit of the Dinagsa Festival.’
Participants from various parts of the Visayas, including Panay, Cebu, Negros Oriental, Siquijor, and Bohol, joined the festivities. An internal audit revealed that the festival generated sales of at least PHP1 billion, with profits coming not only from stall sales but also from increased spending on transportation, fuel, and food.
Mayor Escalante estimated that with a 20% profit margin, businesses could have earned between PHP150 to PHP20 million. The economic impact was evident as shopping malls and eateries were packed, showcasing the festival’s significant boost to local commerce.
The festival’s climax on January 26 featured the Ati-Atihan street dance competition and the traditional ‘Lamhitanay sa Dalan.’ Tribu Sicablun Quatro from Barangays Sicaba, Luna, and Zone 4 emerged as the street dance champions, winning PHP200,000 and additional awards for Best in Costume and Best Choreography.