4 10 362 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Salognon reclaims Dinagyang crown, pockets P11.5-M incentive in tribes showdown By Ma. Theresa Ladiao -Monday, January 26, 2026 Tribu Salognon of Jaro National High School emerges as the champion of the 2026 Dinagyang Festival’s Ati tribes competition on Sunday, January 25, 2026, delivering a standout performance the stunned the crowd. Their winning portrayal of the maral Leopard cat powerfully highlighted the grace and vulnerability of the Visayan wildlife. AJ PALCULLO/PN Tribu Salognon of Jaro National High School emerges as the champion of the 2026 Dinagyang Festival’s Ati tribes competition on Sunday, January 25, 2026, delivering a standout performance the stunned the crowd. Their winning portrayal of the maral Leopard cat powerfully highlighted the grace and vulnerability of the Visayan wildlife. AJ PALCULLO/PN ILOILO City – Tribu Salognon of Jaro National High School surged back to the top of the Dinagyang Festival tribes competition, clinching the Grand Championship this year in what festival officials described as one of the most competitive and artistically elevated editions in recent years. The victory – announced last night at the Freedom Grandstand packed with an estimated 30,000 crowd occupying the long stretch of Muelle Loney Street – capped a high-energy cultural showdown witnessed by thousands of spectators at the festival’s major performance venues. Salognon’s winning piece drew from the mystique and resilience of the maral leopard cat, translating the endangered animal’s stealth and strength into sleek, shadow-driven choreography and tightly executed formations. Judges cited the tribe’s storytelling, musicality, choreography, and overall impact as decisive factors in its triumph. It was the Dinagyang champion twice before – in 2016 and 2017. The Jaro-based tribe received P1.5 million in cash and a championship trophy, plus Mayor Raisa Treñas announced that the champion school would also be awarded P10 million worth of school development projects, bringing Tribu Salognon’s total incentive package to P11.5 million. Defeated defending champion Tribu Paghidaet of La Paz National High School settled for first runner-up, earning P1 million in cash, a trophy, and P3 million worth of school projects. It had been a champion in 2020, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2003, and 2002. Tribu Pan-ay of Fort San Pedro National High School finished second runner-up with P700,000 prize, a trophy, and P2 million in school projects, while Tribu Taga-Baryo of Barangay Bo. Obrero placed third runner-up, taking home P600,000, a trophy, and P1 million in school projects. Mayor Treñas also announced P500,000 worth of school projects as consolation prizes for the other participating tribes/schools, reinforcing the city’s push to link cultural competition with long-term educational investment. Several special and technical awards were handed out, further highlighting the depth of competition. Tribu Paghidaet dominated performance-related citations, winning Best in Discipline, Best in Street Dance, Best in Costume Design, and Best in Performance. Tribu Salognon, meanwhile, secured Best in Production Design, Best in Music, and Best in Choreography. Each special award carried a P10,000 prize. On the provincial stage, the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan competition saw the Tultugan Festival of Maasin, Iloilo crowned Grand Champion, completing a historic third consecutive title. The group swept multiple awards, including Best in Production Design, Music, Street Dancing, Costume, Musical Director, and the Circular Creativity Award, earning P1.2 million in cash and a trophy. The Kahilwayan Festival of Santa Barbara , Iloilo claimed first runner-up, bagging P700,000, a trophy, and several special awards (Best in Performance, Best in Choreography, People’s Choice Award, Best in Choreographer, and Best in Ingenuity Award). Kasag Festival of Banate placed second runner-up with P500,000 and a trophy. Meanwhile, the ILOmination Philippine Light Festival Competition ended with the Banaag Festival of Anilao, Iloilo emerging as Grand Champion, dazzling crowds with inventive choreography, striking costumes, and elaborate light effects to earn P500,000 in cash and a trophy, closing the Dinagyang celebrations on a luminous high note. First runner-up was Zamboanga Hermosa Festival of Zamboanga City, while the second runner-up was Pavvurulun Afi Festival of Tuguegarao City. In the Sadsad sa Calle Real contest, Tribu Parianon emerged as champion, with the following runners-up: * 1st runner-up – Tribu Molave-Buntatala * 2nd runner-up – Tribu Familia Sagasa Here are the minor awards winners in Sadsad sa Calle Real: * People’s Choice Award – Tribu Molave * Best in Discipline – Tribu Aninipay * Best in Costume Design and Headdress – Tribu Parianon * Best in Music – Tribu Parianon * Best in Choreography – Tribu Parianon * Best in Sto. Niño Bearer – Tribu Parianon City and provincial officials hailed the overall success of Dinagyang 2026, citing the consistently high level of performances across competitions and the sustained investment in culture, education, and community development through substantial cash prizes and school and municipal projects./PN Citation Citation of the article Ladiao, M.T. [ 2026, January 26 ]. Salognon reclaims Dinagyang crown, pockets P11.5-M incentive in tribes showdown. Panay News, 1-2. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Salognon reclaims Dinagyang crown, pockets P11.5-M incentive in tribes showdown Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – Tribu Salognon of Jaro National High School surged back to the top of the Dinagyang Festival tribes competition, clinching the Grand Championship this year in what festival officials described as one of the most competitive and artistically elevated editions in recent years. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Ladiao, Ma. Theresa Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/salognon-reclaims-dinagyang-crown-pockets-p11-5-m-incentive-in-tribes-showdown/" title="Panay News" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.panaynews.net/salognon-reclaims-dinagyang-crown-pockets-p11-5-m-incentive-in-tribes-showdown/</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource January 26, 2026 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Festivals Dinagyang Festival Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document ‘Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan showcases sharper identity and bolder creativity’ By Ime Sornito -Monday, January 26, 2026 Kahilwayan Festival of Sta. Barbara bursts into motion as dancers reenact rural struggle and triumph, turning farm life and freedom into a gripping spectacle at the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan competition of the Dinagyang Festival 2026. MAI LADIAO/PN Kahilwayan Festival of Sta. Barbara bursts into motion as dancers reenact rural struggle and triumph, turning farm life and freedom into a gripping spectacle at the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan competition of the Dinagyang Festival 2026. MAI LADIAO/PN By IME SORNITO ILOILO — The 2026 edition of the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan competition of the Dinagyang Festival marked a clear creative leap, with performances showing stronger identity, sharper storytelling, and bolder departures from past presentations, according to Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. Defensor said the eight participating festivals this year demonstrated a noticeable transformation compared with last year, particularly in how each tribe developed its own distinct character and artistic direction. “Nakita naton nga it has leveled up, big difference between last year and this year. And nakita na naton, it has developed a character, the participating festivals were not afraid to make something different, lain na. Every presentation is different and every presentation is a surprise, kita ko lain and we like that. We want to develop that way,” Defensor said. The governor credited the improved quality of performances to the willingness of participating festivals to experiment and move away from familiar formulas, resulting in presentations that were both unpredictable and visually compelling. Defensor congratulated the Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc. (IFFI), the eight participating tribes, and the Iloilo provincial government for the successful staging of Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan 2026, noting that the competition has continued to evolve as a platform for cultural creativity among local government units. When asked which festival he personally favored, Defensor said all participants were winners in his view, citing the consistently high level of performance across the board. For this year’s competition, the prizes were: P1.2 million for the champion, P700,000 for first runner-up, and P500,000 for the second runner-up. Non-winning tribes got P200,000 each. These prizes were on top of provincial government subsidies provided to support production and performance enhancements. Miag-ao, Santa Barbara, Maasin, Anilao, Banate, and San Rafael each received P2 million, while New Lucena and Bingawan were allotted P3 million each. The eight festivals that competed for the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan were Jimanban Festival of New Lucena, Tawili Festival of San Rafael, Salakayan Festival of Miag-ao, Pagnahi-an Festival of Bingawan, Tultugan Festival of Maasin, Kasag Festival of Banate, Kahilwayan Festival of Santa Barbara, and Banaag Festival of Anilao./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. [ 2026, January 26 ]. ‘Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan showcases sharper identity and bolder creativity’. Panay News, 4&15. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource ‘Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan showcases sharper identity and bolder creativity’ Description An account of the resource ILOILO — The 2026 edition of the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan competition of the Dinagyang Festival marked a clear creative leap, with performances showing stronger identity, sharper storytelling, and bolder departures from past presentations, according to Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Sornito, Ime Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/kasadyahan-sa-kabanwahanan-showcases-sharper-identity-and-bolder-creativity/" title="Panay News" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.panaynews.net/kasadyahan-sa-kabanwahanan-showcases-sharper-identity-and-bolder-creativity/</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource January 26, 2026 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Festivals Dinagyang Festival Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document DOH-6 rolls out quake guide for families with autism, flags disaster vulnerability By Neljoy N. Galigao -Monday, January 26, 2026 ILOILO City – With earthquakes posing a constant threat in Western Visayas, the Department of Health (DOH) has launched a specialized Earthquake Preparedness Guide aimed at helping families with persons with autism navigate emergencies, addressing long-standing gaps in disaster readiness for individuals with special needs. DOH Region 6 said the guide responds to the heightened risks faced by persons with autism during disasters, as sensory sensitivities, communication barriers, anxiety, and sudden changes in routine can significantly hinder their ability to respond to fast-moving emergency situations. The department noted that families with children with disabilities often face greater barriers to preparedness, making tailored guidance essential. The guide outlines why persons with autism can be more vulnerable during earthquakes, citing sensory overload from noise and crowds, difficulty processing rapid instructions, and disruptions to routines that may trigger distress or meltdowns. It also explains what caregivers can expect when the ground shakes and how to manage reactions during and immediately after a seismic event, including the use of visual supports and clear, simple instructions. A key feature of the guide is a detailed 72-hour Go Bag checklist designed specifically for persons with autism. Recommended items include waterproofed important documents, non-perishable food and water, medications and hygiene supplies, communication devices and visual cards, sensory tools such as headphones and fidgets, comfort items, and power banks to keep essential devices running. The guide also underscores the need for low-stimulation, predictable environments in evacuation shelters, warning that chaotic settings can worsen distress among persons with autism if routines are abruptly disrupted. “Keep your family safe and supported during a disaster,” DOH-6 stressed. “This essential guide, featuring a 72-hour Go Bag checklist and safety tips, is specifically designed to meet the needs of persons with autism,” the department added. DOH-6 said the release of the guide is part of its broader push for inclusive disaster preparedness, urging families to access the material, review its recommendations, and prepare in advance to ensure that persons with autism are not left behind when emergencies strike./PN Citation Citation of the article Galigao, N. [ 2026, January 26 ]. DOH-6 rolls out quake guide for families with autism, flags disaster vulnerability. Panay News, 3&15. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource DOH-6 rolls out quake guide for families with autism, flags disaster vulnerability Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – With earthquakes posing a constant threat in Western Visayas, the Department of Health (DOH) has launched a specialized Earthquake Preparedness Guide aimed at helping families with persons with autism navigate emergencies, addressing long-standing gaps in disaster readiness for individuals with special needs. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Galigao, Neljoy Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/doh-6-rolls-out-quake-guide-for-families-with-autism-flags-disaster-vulnerability/" title="Panay News" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.panaynews.net/doh-6-rolls-out-quake-guide-for-families-with-autism-flags-disaster-vulnerability/</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource January 26, 2026 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Autism Earthquakes Emergency management Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document P183-M tourism push for Iloilo LGUs rolled out By Ime Sornito -Tuesday, January 27, 2026 DEFENSOR DEFENSOR ILOILO — The Iloilo provincial government has rolled out P183 million worth of tourism, infrastructure, and disaster-preparedness projects for local government units (LGUs) as part of a broader strategy to institutionalize community-based tourism across the province. The turnover of projects marked the initial implementation of Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr.’s newly signed executive order titled “An Order to Institute Fun, Foodie and Friendly sa Kabanwahanan for MoRProGRes,” which seeks to position LGUs not only as hosts of tourism events but also as frontline service providers for visitors, in line with the Provincial Tourism Development Plan. “Our tourism industry has an LGU development-oriented approach in three areas – food and agriculture, natural environment, and culture and heritage,” Defensor explained. The governor said the program also covers three additional pillars — infrastructure and facilities, capacity building, and partnerships and collaborations — to ensure that tourism growth translates into long-term local development. Based on provincial data, the P183,159,648 total allocation includes P22,441,000 for support to festivals; P34,131,648 for tourism infrastructures; P88,780,000 for tourism support infrastructures; and P37,807,000 for disaster preparedness programs. Eight municipalities that participated in the recent Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan competition of Dinagyang Festival received direct financial assistance, namely: Miag-ao (P2 million), New Lucena (P3 million), Santa Barbara (P2 million), Bingawan (P3 million), Maasin (P2 million), Anilao (P2 million), Banate (P2 million), and San Rafael (P2 million). The provincial government also funded several tourism-related infrastructure projects, including a greenhouse with tourist reception facility in Bingawan (P4.5 million); a multi-purpose tourism hub with rest areas in San Rafael (P3 million); restoration of the Santa Barbara Victory Plaza Complex and football field (P5 million); a School of Living Tradition Center in Barangay Lipata, Sitio Nagpana, Barotac Viejo (P2.5 million); and a weaving center in Badiangan (P3 million). Other funded initiatives include green space programs in Banate and Bingawan (P1 million each); bamboo industry support projects in Maasin (P2 million), Tubungan (P1.5 million), and Concepcion (P1.5 million); rehabilitation of the Batiano River in Oton (P1.131 million); establishment of a crab hatchery in Banate (P5 million); construction of a village warehouse in Concepcion (P2 million); urban container gardening projects in Badiangan and Cabatuan (P100,000 each); deployment of artificial reefs in Carles (P600,000); and improvement of the marine protected area in Ajuy (P200,000). Tourism support infrastructures funded by the province include a food terminal in New Lucena (P10 million), warehouses in San Rafael (P20 million) and Badiangan (P10 million), a hanging footbridge in Igbaras (P5.485 million), and improvements to the water system in Barangay Bangka, Batad (P2 million)./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. [ 2026, January 27 ]. P183-M tourism push for Iloilo LGUs rolled out. Panay News, 4&15. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource P183-M tourism push for Iloilo LGUs rolled out Description An account of the resource ILOILO — The Iloilo provincial government has rolled out P183 million worth of tourism, infrastructure, and disaster-preparedness projects for local government units (LGUs) as part of a broader strategy to institutionalize community-based tourism across the province. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Sornito, Ime Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/p183-m-tourism-push-for-iloilo-lgus-rolled-out/" title="Panay News" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.panaynews.net/p183-m-tourism-push-for-iloilo-lgus-rolled-out/</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource January 27, 2026 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Tourism Local government Tourism Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document La Paz performance site removed from judging in ‘Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan’ due to space limits By Ime Sornito -Thursday, January 22, 2026 Discover more Western Visayas news Viewing stage construction continues at Judging Area No. 2 in Iloilo City’s La Paz district ahead of the Dinagyang Festival. For the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan competition, the La Paz performance area will be a non-judging performance area due to space limitations. AJ PALCULLO/PN ILOILO City — Due to space constraints, the La Paz district performance site along Huervana-Luna streets has been officially designated as a non-judging area for the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan competition of Dinagyang Festival 2026 on Saturday, January 24, effectively reducing the number of judging venues to two. Dr. Alfonso “Fonz” Baldonado III, production and program director of Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan, confirmed on Wednesday, January 21, that the Iloilo provincial government decided to remove Judging Area No. 2 in La Paz from scoring . “Participating municipal festivals were given the option to use their large props if these can fit, or not use them at all at Judging Area No. 2. What matters is that they deliver color and a strong performance notwithstanding the limited space,” Baldonado explained. The Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc. (IFFI), organizer of this year’s Dinagyang, earlier decided to add La Paz as a judging area. Baldonado said the eight Kasadyahan contingents had already finalized performance props, making last-minute adjustments difficult with only days left before competition day. He added that all contingents were consulted and agreed to the La Paz site’s non-judging status, assuring the public that the groups will still perform at the venue despite the absence of judges. With the change, only two judging areas will be used for Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan – the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand and the Iloilo Sports Complex. The eight Kasasdyahan contingents competing this year are: * Jimanban Festival of New Lucena * Tawili Festival of San Rafael * Salakayan Festival of Miag-ao * Pagnahi-an Festival of Bingawan * Tultugan Festival of Maasin * Kasag Festival of Banate * Kahilwayan Festival of Santa Barbara * Banaag Festival of Anilao The champion will receive P1.2 million; P700,000 for the first runner-up; P500,000 for the second runner-up; and P200,000 in consolation prizes for the remaining tribes./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. [ 2026, January 22 ]. La Paz performance site removed from judging in ‘Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan’ due to space limits. Panay News, 2&15. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource La Paz performance site removed from judging in ‘Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan’ due to space limits Description An account of the resource ILOILO City — Due to space constraints, the La Paz district performance site along Huervana-Luna streets has been officially designated as a non-judging area for the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan competition of Dinagyang Festival 2026 on Saturday, January 24, effectively reducing the number of judging venues to two. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Sornito, Ime Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/la-paz-performance-site-removed-from-judging-in-kasadyahan-sa-kabanwahanan-due-to-space-limits/" title="Panay News" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.panaynews.net/la-paz-performance-site-removed-from-judging-in-kasadyahan-sa-kabanwahanan-due-to-space-limits/</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource January 22, 2026 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Festivals Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahan Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document P3-M prize to crown Dinagyang tribe champion By Ma. Theresa Ladiao -Wednesday, January 21, 2026 ILOILO City – The grand champion of the Dinagyang Festival 2026 tribes competition will take home not only an outright cash prize of P1.5 million but also a school infrastructure project worth P1.5 million, as the Iloilo City government raises the stakes to ensure the festival delivers lasting benefits beyond the streets. Mayor Raisa Treñas said the winning tribe’s partner school will receive an infrastructure project tailored to its most urgent needs, which may include classroom improvements, facility upgrades, or enhancements to learning resources. “This is something we really want to highlight,” Treñas said. “We want the victory of the tribe to leave something permanent and meaningful for the school and for the children.” She explained that the incentive was deliberately designed to go beyond the traditional cash reward, ensuring that Dinagyang’s cultural celebration directly supports community development. “Instead of everything ending after the performance, there will be a visible project that the students and teachers can actually use every day,” the mayor said. “That is where we want the real impact to be.” Treñas added that the P1.5-million infrastructure support underscores the city’s commitment to strengthening education through culture and the arts. “This is our way of giving back — not only to the tribes who work so hard, but also to the schools that nurture these young performers,” she said. “When the tribe wins, the school wins, and ultimately the whole community benefits.” The city government will closely coordinate with the Department of Education and school administrators to identify priority projects and ensure proper implementation of the infrastructure support. City officials expect the enhanced prize package to further elevate competition standards and deepen Dinagyang’s impact beyond tourism and entertainment. This year’s seven competing tribes on January 25 are Tribu Bulawanon sang Molo from Molo district; Tribu Ilonganon of Jalandoni Memorial National High School; Tribu Taga Baryo from Bo. Obrero, Lapuz district; Tribu Salognon of Jaro National High School; Tribu Ilayanhon of Graciano Lopez Jaena Elementary School; Tribu Pan-ay of Fort San Pedro National High School; and Tribu Paghidaet of La Paz National High School. Meanwhile, contenders for this year’s Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan will not only bring home cash prizes but also projects for local government units to boost their tourism activities. Winning festivals will take home P1.2 million for the champion, P700,000 for second place, and P500,000 for third place. Meanwhile, non-winning festivals will receive a consolation prize of P200,000. The Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan will be seeing the presentations of eight festivals on January 24 – Jimanban Festival of New Lucena; Tawili Festival of San Rafael; Salakayan Festival of Miag-ao; Pagnahi-an Festival of Bingawan; Tultugan Festival of Maasin; Kasag Festival of Banate; Kahilwayan Festival of Santa Barbara; and the Banaag Festival of Anilao./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. [ 2026, January 21 ]. P3-M prize to crown Dinagyang tribe champion. Panay News, 1-2. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource P3-M prize to crown Dinagyang tribe champion Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – The grand champion of the Dinagyang Festival 2026 tribes competition will take home not only an outright cash prize of P1.5 million but also a school infrastructure project worth P1.5 million, as the Iloilo City government raises the stakes to ensure the festival delivers lasting benefits beyond the streets. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Sornito, Ime Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/p3-m-prize-to-crown-dinagyang-tribe-champion/" title="Panay News" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.panaynews.net/p3-m-prize-to-crown-dinagyang-tribe-champion/</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource January 21, 2026 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Festivals Prizes, etc. Dinagyang Festival Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Prov’l Board honors 2025 nurses’ licensure exam Ilonggo topnotchers, grants cash incentives By Neljoy N. Galigao -Saturday, January 17, 2026 Members of the Iloilo Provincial Board pose with Ilonggo topnotchers of the November 2025 Philippine Nurses Licensure Examination (PNLE), all graduates of West Visayas State University – College of Nursing, during the 26th Regular Session of the 15th Sangguniang Panlalawigan, where the board issued resolutions of commendation and cash incentives to the achievers in recognition of their academic excellence. PHOTO FROM Iloilo VICE GOV. NATHALIE ANN DEBUQUE Members of the Iloilo Provincial Board pose with Ilonggo topnotchers of the November 2025 Philippine Nurses Licensure Examination (PNLE), all graduates of West Visayas State University – College of Nursing, during the 26th Regular Session of the 15th Sangguniang Panlalawigan, where the board issued resolutions of commendation and cash incentives to the achievers in recognition of their academic excellence. PHOTO FROM Iloilo VICE GOV. NATHALIE ANN DEBUQUE ILOILO — The Provincial Board honored Ilonggo nurses who landed in the Top 10 of the November 2025 Philippine Nurses Licensure Examination (PNLE), granting cash incentives and commendations. The recognition, authorized under Provincial Ordinance No. 2023-295, allows the provincial government to confer Resolutions of Commendation and financial rewards on board topnotchers as a way of acknowledging academic excellence and professional dedication in the nursing field. Under the ordinance, the Top 1 finisher received P20,000; those who placed Top 2 to Top 5 were granted P15,000 each; while Top 6 to Top 10 finishers received P10,000 each. Honored were the following: * Top 1: George Wilson T. Escordial – Miagao, Iloilo * Top 4: Tisha Belle Paciente – Passi City, Iloilo * Top 4: Ashleigh Gea B. Abangan – Oton, Iloilo * Top 5: Sharmaine Grace A. Navarro – Miagao, Iloilo * Top 6: Aurela D. Elgario – Oton, Iloilo * Top 7: Gwyneth L. Tiongson – Cabatuan, Iloilo * Top 8: Gayle B. Gumbao – Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo * Top 8: Addison Jovann A. Garrido – Alimodian, Iloilo * Top 8: Charlize D. Baltazar – Dumangas, Iloilo * Top 9: Kale F. Ezpeleta – Igbaras, Iloilo * Top 9: Nafritz Floyd P. Matucan – Passi City, Iloilo * Top 9: Margie T. Tanato – Tubungan, Iloilo * Top 10: Shem B. Panganiban – San Miguel, Iloilo * Top 10: Angel Lou C. Rala – San Dionisio, Iloilo All awardees were graduates of West Visayas State University – College of Nursing, an institution long recognized for producing top-performing nurses in the national licensure examination. Vice Gov. Nathalie Ann Debuque said the province’s recognition program reflects Iloilo’s commitment to honoring academic excellence and strengthening the local health workforce. “May their remarkable achievements inspire future generations of Ilonggo nurses to strive for excellence, serve with compassion, and uphold the province’s proud tradition of quality healthcare service,” Debuque said. Provincial officials said the incentives are intended not only as a reward but also as motivation for young Ilonggos to pursue excellence in healthcare professions, as the province continues to invest in human resource development in the medical and allied fields./PN Citation Citation of the article Galigao, N. [ 2026, January 17 ]. Prov’l Board honors 2025 nurses’ licensure exam Ilonggo topnotchers, grants cash incentives. Panay News, 4&15. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Prov’l Board honors 2025 nurses’ licensure exam Ilonggo topnotchers, grants cash incentives Description An account of the resource ILOILO — The Provincial Board honored Ilonggo nurses who landed in the Top 10 of the November 2025 Philippine Nurses Licensure Examination (PNLE), granting cash incentives and commendations. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Galigao, Neljoy Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/provl-board-honors-2025-nurses-licensure-exam-ilonggo-topnotchers-grants-cash-incentives/" title="Panay News" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.panaynews.net/provl-board-honors-2025-nurses-licensure-exam-ilonggo-topnotchers-grants-cash-incentives/</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource January 17, 2026 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Examinations Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Iloilo prov’l gov’t’s public info chief named to NCCA executive council on monuments and sites By Ime Sornito -Saturday, January 17, 2026 Ilonggo heritage preservation advocate Jose Nereo Lujan, chief of the Iloilo Provincial Government’s Public Information and Community Affairs Office, has been designated as a member of the Executive Council of the National Committee on Monuments and Sites under the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. Ilonggo heritage preservation advocate Jose Nereo Lujan, chief of the Iloilo Provincial Government’s Public Information and Community Affairs Office, has been designated as a member of the Executive Council of the National Committee on Monuments and Sites under the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. ILOILO – The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) has designated Iloilo Provincial Government’s Public Information and Community Affairs Office (PICAO) chief Jose Nereo Lujan as a member of the Executive Council of the National Committee on Monuments and Sites. In a letter dated January 12, NCCA chairman and executive director Eric Zerrudo formally informed Lujan – an advocate of Ilonggo heritage preservation – that the NCCA Board of Commissioners confirmed his designation during its meeting on November 27, 2025, underscoring Iloilo’s growing role in shaping national heritage policy. Lujan’s term will run from January 1, 2026 to December 31, 2028. As a member of the Executive Council, Lujan is tasked to help craft rules and regulations governing the policy formulation, composition, operations, and dissolution of national committees, subject to commission approval. His mandate also includes initiating studies and recommending policies and projects in the field of monuments and sites; advising the Commission on policy matters such as the use of grant funds and pending culture-related bills in Congress; and proposing and advocating legislation for the culture and arts sector. In addition, Lujan will contribute to the preparation of annual, medium-, and long-term plans; help standardize criteria for prioritizing programs and projects; assist in identifying artists, cultural workers, academic institutions, and organizations that can support NCCA initiatives; attend regular and special committee meetings; and serve as a resource person in lectures and workshops conducted by the Commission. The appointment places an Iloilo-based official at the center of national decision-making on heritage conservation and cultural policy./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. [ 2026, January 17 ]. Iloilo prov’l gov’t’s public info chief named to NCCA executive council on monuments and sites. Panay News, 4. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo prov’l gov’t’s public info chief named to NCCA executive council on monuments and sites Description An account of the resource ILOILO – The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) has designated Iloilo Provincial Government’s Public Information and Community Affairs Office (PICAO) chief Jose Nereo Lujan as a member of the Executive Council of the National Committee on Monuments and Sites. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Sornito, Ime Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/iloilo-provl-govts-public-info-chief-named-to-ncca-executive-council-on-monuments-and-sites/" title="Panay News" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.panaynews.net/iloilo-provl-govts-public-info-chief-named-to-ncca-executive-council-on-monuments-and-sites/</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource January 17, 2026 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Public officers Historic sites Monuments Public Information and Community Affairs Office (PICAO) Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Kasadyahan contingents already in winning form, Defensor cites opening salvo performances By Panay News -Saturday, January 17, 2026 ILOILO City – Calling it a strong indicator of what is to come, Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. lauded the recent opening salvo of the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan competition of the Dinagyang Festival, saying the performances already merited a “good 10” even if they were staged merely as a rehearsal for the main competition on January 24. Speaking after the showcase at the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand on January 10, Defensor said the participating municipalities demonstrated discipline, preparation, and competitive drive — qualities he said reflect how seriously local government units take the annual cultural contest. “I cannot rate it 10 because it’s just a practice, but for a practice it was a good 10,” Defensor said. He added that the tribes performed not simply to win awards but to represent their towns and the province with pride. “They are prepared to win, but more importantly, they are prepared to give their best for Iloilo Province and Iloilo City,” he said. The opening salvo featured eight festival contingents: the Jimanban Festival of New Lucena, Tawili Festival of San Rafael, Salakayan Festival of Miag-ao, Pagnahi-an Festival of Bingawan, Tultugan Festival of Maasin, Kasag Festival of Banate, Kahilwayan Festival of Santa Barbara, and Banaag Festival of Anilao. Each tribe showcased choreography and themes rooted in local history, livelihood, and cultural identity. Defensor also expressed gratitude to the Iloilo City Government and the Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc. He said the provincial government plans to roll out individual features on each tribe in the days leading up to the competition to help the public better appreciate that the contingents represent the “soul” of their municipalities and are more than just competing groups./PN Citation Citation of the article Ladiao, M. T. [ 2026, January 18 ]. Kasadyahan contingents already in winning form, Defensor cites opening salvo performances. Panay News, 2&15. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Kasadyahan contingents already in winning form, Defensor cites opening salvo performances Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – Calling it a strong indicator of what is to come, Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. lauded the recent opening salvo of the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan competition of the Dinagyang Festival, saying the performances already merited a “good 10” even if they were staged merely as a rehearsal for the main competition on January 24. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Ladiao, Ma. Theresa Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/kasadyahan-contingents-already-in-winning-form-defensor-cites-opening-salvo-performances/" title="Panay News" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.panaynews.net/kasadyahan-contingents-already-in-winning-form-defensor-cites-opening-salvo-performances/</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource January 18, 2026 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Festivals Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Defensor, wife installed as Dinagyang hermano y hermana mayor By Ime Sornito -Monday, January 19, 2026 Iloilo Province’s Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. and mother Cosette (representing her son’s wife Michelle) hold the ceremonial staffs after their formal installation as hermano y hermana mayor of Dinagyang Festival 2026 during rites at San Jose de Placer Parish Church in Plaza Libertad, Iloilo City, marking the opening of the novena for the Feast of Señor Sto. Niño. PHOTO FROM BALITA HALIN SA KAPITOLYO Iloilo Province’s Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. and mother Cosette (representing her son’s wife Michelle) hold the ceremonial staffs after their formal installation as hermano y hermana mayor of Dinagyang Festival 2026 during rites at San Jose de Placer Parish Church in Plaza Libertad, Iloilo City, marking the opening of the novena for the Feast of Señor Sto. Niño. PHOTO FROM BALITA HALIN SA KAPITOLYO ILOILO City – Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. and his wife, First Lady Michelle Defensor, were formally installed as hermano y hermana mayor of Dinagyang Festival 2026, marking the opening of the novena for the Feast of Señor Sto. Niño and underscoring the provincial leadership’s central role in the city’s biggest religious and cultural celebration. The installation rites were held at around 5:30 p.m. on January 16 at San Jose de Placer Parish Church in Plaza Libertad, Iloilo City, and were officiated by Fr. Nelson Zerda. Gov. Defensor attended the solemn ceremony, while his wife was represented by the governor’s mother, Cosette Defensor. The event formally passed on the roles from last year’s hermano y hermana mayor former Iloilo City mayor Jose Espinosa III and wife Gina, continuing a long-standing Ilonggo tradition of lay leadership and devotion to Señor Sto. Niño. The titles hermanoand hermana mayor, rooted in Hispanic traditional and meaning “older brother and sister,” refer to the principal lay leaders entrusted with overseeing and supporting feast-related religious activities in the Filipino Catholic tradition. Records show that the first Dinagyang hermano y hermana mayor were Dr. Antonio and Rosa Caram, who served until the 1975 edition of the festival. Apart from the installation ceremony, organizers also released the full schedule of activities for the Feast of Señor Sto. Niño 2026, themed “In Santo Niño, We are One,” running from January 16 to 25: January 16 * Opening Salvo (Pamukaw sa Barangay via motorcade) * Installation of Hermano and Hermana Mayores 2026 January 17 * Sto. Niño Mass for Children * Children’s Fun Day (San Jose Catholic School Gym) January 18 * Sunday Liturgy Mass * Medical Mission (San Jose Catholic School Gym, 9 a.m.) January 19 * Healing Mass for Elders (8:30 a.m.) * Re-enactment of the enthronement of the image of Señor Sto. Niño (San Jose Catholic School Gym, 1:30 p.m.) * Blessing of Pregnant Women (5:30 p.m.) January 22 * Blessing of the Children (5:30 p.m.) * Translacion via motorcade (6:30 p.m.) January 23 * Fluvial and Foot Processions (2 p.m.) * Blessing of Sto. Niño images (5:30 p.m.) January 24 * Grand Religious Sadsad in front of San Jose Parish Placer (7 p.m.) January 25 * Concelebrated High Mass (6 a.m.) * Sto. Niño Liturgy Masses at 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m., and 5:30 p.m./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. [ 2026, January 19 ]. Defensor, wife installed as Dinagyang hermano y hermana mayor. Panay News, 2&14. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Defensor, wife installed as Dinagyang hermano y hermana mayor Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. and his wife, First Lady Michelle Defensor, were formally installed as hermano y hermana mayor of Dinagyang Festival 2026, marking the opening of the novena for the Feast of Señor Sto. Niño and underscoring the provincial leadership’s central role in the city’s biggest religious and cultural celebration. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Sornito, Ime Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/defensor-wife-installed-as-dinagyang-hermano-y-hermana-mayor/" title="Panay News" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.panaynews.net/defensor-wife-installed-as-dinagyang-hermano-y-hermana-mayor/</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource January 19, 2026 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Festivals Arthur R. Defensor Jr. Dinagyang Festival