3 10 713 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 34 LGUs recognized for population dev’t programs By Ime Sornito -Thursday, January 29, 2026 ILOILO — Thirty-four local government units (LGUs), including the provincial government of Iloilo, have been recognized by the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) Region 6 for exemplary performance in advancing population and development initiatives. In a recognition granted under the 2025 Population and Development (POPDEV) Awards, CPD-6 named 33 municipalities in Iloilo as outstanding local population offices for their consistent implementation of inclusive and community-focused population programs. These municipalities are Barotac Viejo, Dingle, Maasin, Leon, Anilao, Guimbal, Barotac Nuevo, Dumangas, Mina, Pavia, Zarraga, Pototan, San Enrique, Santa Barbara, Tigbauan, Banate, Concepcion, Alimodian, Igbaras, Calinog, Carles, Miag-ao, Oton, San Dionisio, Ajuy, Balasan, Batad, Cabatuan, Estancia, Janiuay, Lemery, San Miguel, San Rafael, and Tubungan. At the provincial level, Iloilo was one of only three provinces in Western Visayas to receive the distinction, alongside Guimaras and Negros Occidental, highlighting its leadership in population and development governance in the region. The recognized LGUs and the provincial government of Iloilo are scheduled to formally receive their awards during the POPDEV Awards ceremony on March 13., 2026 In a congratulatory statement, CPD-6 commended the awardees for setting a benchmark in local governance. “The Commission on Population and Development Region 6 proudly congratulates our Outstanding Local Population Offices in Western Visayas for their exemplary performance and unwavering commitment to advancing population and development initiatives. Your dedication to responsive, inclusive, and people-centered programs continues to inspire excellence in local governance and community development,” CPD-6 said. Provincial Population Office (PPO) head Atty. Ruel Von Superio credited the achievement to the dedication of municipal population officers, saying he never doubted their capacity to deliver results. “I knew — without question — that every Population Program Officer designated in our municipalities who joined the POPDEV Awards would rise and succeed, because I believe in each of them — their passion, their commitment, and their limitless dedication and potential,” Superio said. The POPDEV Awards recognize LGUs that demonstrate effective integration of population concerns into development planning, service delivery, and community engagement, reinforcing the role of population offices in addressing long-term social and economic challenges./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. [ 2026, January 29 ]. 34 LGUs recognized for population dev’t programs. Panay News, 3. 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 34 LGUs recognized for population dev’t programs Description An account of the resource ILOILO — Thirty-four local government units (LGUs), including the provincial government of Iloilo, have been recognized by the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) Region 6 for exemplary performance in advancing population and development initiatives. 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/34-lgus-recognized-for-population-devt-programs/" title="Panay News" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.panaynews.net/34-lgus-recognized-for-population-devt-programs/</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 29, 2026 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Local government 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-Korea direct flight could unlock tourism, trade gains for Panay – guv By Ime Sornito -Thursday, January 29, 2026 EXPLORING DIRECT AIR LINK. Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. of Iloilo confers with Lee Sang-hwa, ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the Philippines, during a courtesy visit at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol on Monday, January 26, 2026 where the possibility of establishing a direct Iloilo–South Korea flight was discussed. PHOTO FROM BALITA HALIN SA KAPITOLYO EXPLORING DIRECT AIR LINK. Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. of Iloilo confers with Lee Sang-hwa, ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the Philippines, during a courtesy visit at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol on Monday, January 26, 2026 where the possibility of establishing a direct Iloilo–South Korea flight was discussed. PHOTO FROM BALITA HALIN SA KAPITOLYO ILOILO – The long-standing push for a direct air link between Iloilo and South Korea is back on the table, with Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. raising the proposal anew during a courtesy visit by the ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the Philippines, Lee Sang-hwa. Defensor said a direct Iloilo–Seoul flight would significantly boost tourism and trade not only for Iloilo City and Iloilo province but for the entire Panay Island, citing the steady flow of Korean visitors to Western Visayas — particularly to Boracay Island — and the growing Korean community based in Iloilo. According to the governor, there are currently around 500 Korean nationals living in Iloilo. Defensor stressed that the proposed Iloilo–South Korea route remains a priority regional connectivity project that had already gained traction before being shelved during the COVID-19 pandemic. The push for a direct flight is also being supported by the Department of Tourism (DOT). Even before, Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez, regional director of DOT in Western Visayas, had been advocating for direct international flights from Iloilo to Korea, as well as to Taiwan and Japan, to attract more foreign tourists to the region. “We are hoping to have more international direct flights to and from Iloilo,” Rodriguez said in an interview last year during the resumption of flights from Iloilo to Hong Kong, Singapore, and Bangkok, Thailand. DOT data showed Western Visayas recorded 5,909,568 tourist arrivals in 2024, a 10.25 percent increase from 2023 and slightly higher than the 5.8 million arrivals logged in 2019. These arrivals generated an estimated P74 billion in visitor receipts, with P10.96 billion coming from foreign and overseas Filipino tourists. Aklan accounted for the biggest share with 2,202,023 tourists and P42.93 billion in receipts, followed by Iloilo City with 1,001,028 tourists and P9.40 billion. Iloilo province recorded 358,475 tourists and P3.94 billion in receipts, while Antique, Capiz, and Guimaras posted more modest but steadily growing figures. “These figures reflect the growing tourism industry in Western Visayas and the region’s potential to attract more international visitors in the years ahead,” Rodriguez said. At present, Iloilo International Airport serves daily domestic flights to Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Clark, Davao, General Santos, Manila, Puerto Princesa, Tagbilaran (Bohol), Legazpi, and Dumaguete, with Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and AirAsia operating at the airport./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. [ 2026, January 29 ]. Iloilo-Korea direct flight could unlock tourism, trade gains for Panay – guv. 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 Iloilo-Korea direct flight could unlock tourism, trade gains for Panay – guv Description An account of the resource ILOILO – The long-standing push for a direct air link between Iloilo and South Korea is back on the table, with Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. raising the proposal anew during a courtesy visit by the ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the Philippines, Lee Sang-hwa. 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-korea-direct-flight-could-unlock-tourism-trade-gains-for-panay-guv/" title="Panay News" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.panaynews.net/iloilo-korea-direct-flight-could-unlock-tourism-trade-gains-for-panay-guv/</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 29, 2026 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Flights around the world Arthur R. Defensor Jr. 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 backs return of Ati tribes, Kasadyahan competition to City Proper in Dinagyang 2027 By Ime Sornito -Thursday, January 29, 2026 ILOILO — Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. threw his support behind the Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc.’s (IFFI) plan to bring back both the Ati tribes competition and the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan to the Iloilo City Proper for Dinagyang Festival 2027, saying the provincial government has “no issue” with the reset and will continue to back decisions made by festival organizers and the city government. “No issue. (If) ibalik sa (C)ity (Proper) maayo man. We will always support,” Defensor said. The provincial contingent cannot split or take a different route, he stressed. As to the use of the provincial government-run Iloilo Sports Complex as Dinagyang judging area, Defensor acknowledged that it carries both benefits and drawbacks. While the sports complex can accommodate up to 5,000 spectators, but said the atmosphere is markedly different compared with the City Proper, which hosts the food festival and serves as the city’s commercial center. “Nami sa sports complex, damo mapapungko. Ugaling lain gid man eh. Kon ako lang ya, this is my personal opinion, lain ang vibe kon ara ikaw sa stadium. Ang stadium is a venue for sports events,” Defensor explained. He stressed, however, that designating the sports complex as a judging area for this year’s Dinagyang was not a mistake but a matter of weighing trade-offs. Defensor also thanked the San Jose de Placer Church, the Iloilo City government, Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc., provincial department heads, and festival committees for what he described as a successful Dinagyang Festival 2026, noting marked improvements in performances across both Kasadyahan and Ati tribes competitions. “It was a very successful Dinagyang. The festival was elevated. We look forward for more improvements in the coming years,” Defensor said./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. [ 2026, January 29 ]. Defensor backs return of Ati tribes, Kasadyahan competition to City Proper in Dinagyang 2027. Panay News, 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 Defensor backs return of Ati tribes, Kasadyahan competition to City Proper in Dinagyang 2027 Description An account of the resource ILOILO — Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. threw his support behind the Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc.’s (IFFI) plan to bring back both the Ati tribes competition and the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan to the Iloilo City Proper for Dinagyang Festival 2027, saying the provincial government has “no issue” with the reset and will continue to back decisions made by festival organizers and the city government. 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-backs-return-of-ati-tribes-kasadyahan-competition-to-city-proper-in-dinagyang-2027/" title="Panay News" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.panaynews.net/defensor-backs-return-of-ati-tribes-kasadyahan-competition-to-city-proper-in-dinagyang-2027/</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 29, 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 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 ‘GLOW IN THE DARK’: Dinagyang ILOmination ‘warriors’ to flood city streets with light tonight By Ma. Theresa Ladiao -Friday, January 23, 2026 The Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc. says the Dinagyang Festival’s ILOmination competition continues to evolve as a platform for creative expression, blending modern lighting technology with deeply rooted cultural narratives. Photo shows Pandang Gitab of Oriental Mindoro, one of the five competing light festival groups in this year’s ILOmination. ILOILO DINAGYANG FESTIVAL/FACEBOOK PHOTO The Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc. says the Dinagyang Festival’s ILOmination competition continues to evolve as a platform for creative expression, blending modern lighting technology with deeply rooted cultural narratives. Photo shows Pandang Gitab of Oriental Mindoro, one of the five competing light festival groups in this year’s ILOmination. ILOILO DINAGYANG FESTIVAL/FACEBOOK PHOTO ILOILO City – This southern metropolis will turn into a sea of light and movement tonight as Dinagyang Festival’s ILOmination competition takes over the city. Spectators for this annual celebration’s biggest nighttime spectacle will be seeing the parade route transformed into a moving canvas of lights, music, and choreography. Set to start at 5 p.m. this Friday, January 23, the illuminated parade will roll out from the Atria on the long stretch of the bustling Sen. Benigno Aquino Jr. Avenue, pass through SM City Iloilo, and culminate at the Iloilo Business Park. Five competing light festival groups from across the country will take part in this year’s ILOmination. These are the following: * Pandangg Gitab Festival of Oriental Mindoro * Banaag Festival of Anilao, Iloilo * Dinagyang ILOmination contingent of Iloilo City * Pavvurulun Afi Festival of Tuguegarao City; and * Zamboanga Hermosa Festival of Zamboanga City According to Dinagyang organizer Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc. (IFFI), ILOmination continues to evolve as a platform for creative expression, blending modern lighting technology with deeply rooted cultural narratives. The nighttime showcase highlights regional diversity while reinforcing Iloilo City’s reputation as an innovative festival host that balances tradition with contemporary spectacle. Adding a distinct cultural dimension to the evening is a special Lion and Dragon Dance performance by the Iloilo Cultural Federation, Inc., symbolizing prosperity, good fortune, and harmony as the city also ushers in the Chinese New Year. With glowing colors, pulsating rhythms, and intricate designs, Dinagyang 2026’s ILOmination is expected to draw large crowds, once again underscoring why Dinagyang remains among the country’s most dynamic and anticipated cultural celebrations. The following Saturday night, foodies at the Iloilo Food Festival downtown will get an added treat as participating tribes of the ILOmination contest stage a special performance. “We want everyone enjoying our local cuisine to also experience the color, movement, and excitement of ILOmination,” Treñas said, adding that the activity highlights how Dinagyang continues to innovate while remaining inclusive and accessible to the public. The special performance will be staged on a 360-degree setup on Valeria-Delgado Streets, City Proper, with the platform positioned at the center and surrounded by food kiosks and activity areas, allowing spectators to view the show from all angles. Treñas said the interactive layout is meant to enhance the overall festival experience, blending food, culture, and performance into one immersive event. “We want people to feel the festival, to be part of it — whether they come for the food, the lights, or the performances,” she said./PN Citation Citation of the article Ladiao, N. [ 2026, January 23 ]. ‘GLOW IN THE DARK’: Dinagyang ILOmination ‘warriors’ to flood city streets with light tonight. 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 ‘GLOW IN THE DARK’: Dinagyang ILOmination ‘warriors’ to flood city streets with light tonight Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – This southern metropolis will turn into a sea of light and movement tonight as Dinagyang Festival’s ILOmination competition takes over the city. Spectators for this annual celebration’s biggest nighttime spectacle will be seeing the parade route transformed into a moving canvas of lights, music, and choreography. 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/glow-in-the-dark-dinagyang-ilomination-warriors-to-flood-city-streets-with-light-tonight/" title="Panay News" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.panaynews.net/glow-in-the-dark-dinagyang-ilomination-warriors-to-flood-city-streets-with-light-tonight/</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 23, 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 Tultugan eyes Dinagyang 2027 Ati tribes tilt after grand slam By Ime Sornito -Wednesday, January 28, 2026 BAMBOO BEAT, GRAND SLAM FEAT. Performers of the Tultugan Festival of Maasin, Iloilo power through a high-energy routine during the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan 2026, showcasing synchronized bamboo percussion, intricate costumes, and disciplined choreography that propelled the festival to a historic third straight championship. MAI LADIAO/PN ILOILO — Riding the momentum of a historic grand slam at the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan competition of Dinagyang Festival 2026, the Tultugan Festival of Maasin town is now eyeing a bigger stage, with plans to compete in the prestigious Ati tribes competition of Dinagyang in 2027. Tultugan clinched its third consecutive championship at Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan, sealing a rare three-peat. Mayor Francis “Ansing” Amboy said Maasin will take a break from Kasadyahan next year to give other festivals a chance at the title, as the town prepares to channel its creative energy toward the Dinagyang Ati tribes competition. Asked about the secret behind Tultugan Festival’s consistent victories, Amboy credited unity, teamwork, and hands-on leadership, even with limited preparation time. “Tanan nagabuligay, kag especially they have a dancing mayor kag hands-on mayor. We give our best. We have 20 days preparation but grabe ang kabataan, grabe ang performers kag grabe ang pagbuylog sang mga pumoluyo sang Maasin,” he added. The Tultugan Festival is a cultural and environmental celebration held annually in the municipality of Maasin, known as the “Bamboo Capital of Panay”. The festival centers on the town’s abundant bamboo resources and its traditional bamboo percussion instrument, the tultog. For now, the Tultugan Festival is awaiting the decision of the Iloilo provincial government on whether it will be selected to represent the province in the upcoming Aliwan Fiesta in Metro Manila. Aliwan Fiesta is a premier annual cultural event in the country held in Pasay City, showcasing festivals from various regions. In recognition of the dedication and hard work of Maasin’s student performers and their teachers — and to allow them time to rest and recover — Mayor Amboy announced the suspension of classes in both public and private schools at all levels in Maasin on Monday, January 26. “We thank the public for their understanding and continued support as we celebrate and showcase the talents of our youth and the vibrant culture of Maasin,” Amboy said in an official statement. Aside from winning the championship, Tultugan Festival also dominated the special awards, securing Best in Production Design, Music, Street Dancing, Costume, Musical Director, and the Circular Creativity Award. The festival took home P1.2 million in cash and a trophy. The Kahilwayan Festival of Santa Barbara finished as first runner-up, earning P700,000, a trophy, and multiple special awards, including 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, receiving P500,000 and a trophy. The eight festivals that competed in 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 28 ]. Tultugan eyes Dinagyang 2027 Ati tribes tilt after grand slam. 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 Tultugan eyes Dinagyang 2027 Ati tribes tilt after grand slam Description An account of the resource ILOILO — Riding the momentum of a historic grand slam at the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan competition of Dinagyang Festival 2026, the Tultugan Festival of Maasin town is now eyeing a bigger stage, with plans to compete in the prestigious Ati tribes competition of Dinagyang in 2027. 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/tultugan-eyes-dinagyang-2027-ati-tribes-tilt-after-grand-slam/" title="Panay News" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.panaynews.net/tultugan-eyes-dinagyang-2027-ati-tribes-tilt-after-grand-slam/</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 28, 2026 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Maasin Tultugan 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 Concepcion set to host 142-MW solar farm; Visayas seen to get electricity supply boost By Neljoy N. Galigao -Saturday, January 24, 2026 ILOILO — Northern Iloilo’s push for renewable energy is gaining momentum. Developers confirmed that a 142-megawatt solar power project in the municipality of Concepcion is moving toward construction this year, positioning the town as a major contributor to the Visayas power grid. The large-scale solar farm, being developed by MGen Renewable Energy Inc. in partnership with Saudi-based ACWA Power, is expected to break ground within the next six to eight months following recent site visits and consultations with provincial and local government officials. Project proponents have already secured about 150 hectares of land at the foothills of Mt. Apitong, covering selected areas in barangays Loong and Nipa. Once completed, the facility will have a designed capacity of 142.10 megawatts, making it one of the largest solar installations planned in northern Iloilo. The project is seen as a significant boost to the Visayas electricity supply amid rising demand for cleaner and more sustainable power sources. In a report released by the Concepcion municipal government, local officials said the solar farm is expected to deliver several benefits to the town, including job generation during the construction phase, increased local revenues from taxes, and stronger positioning of Concepcion as a renewable energy hub in the province. “During construction, priority will be given to hiring local residents, both skilled and unskilled,” the report said, noting that the project could help improve employment opportunities in the municipality. The municipal government also expects the project to generate substantial tax revenues that can be channeled into public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure, while helping reduce the town’s carbon footprint. At present, MGen is completing regulatory requirements and final logistical preparations to ensure the smooth rollout of the project, which is slated to rise at the foothills of Mt. Apitong in the coming months. Local officials said the planned solar farm underscores Concepcion’s growing role in Iloilo’s transition toward clean and sustainable energy./PN Citation Citation of the article Galigao, N. [ 2026, January 24 ]. Concepcion set to host 142-MW solar farm; Visayas seen to get electricity supply boost. 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 Concepcion set to host 142-MW solar farm; Visayas seen to get electricity supply boost Description An account of the resource ILOILO — Northern Iloilo’s push for renewable energy is gaining momentum. Developers confirmed that a 142-megawatt solar power project in the municipality of Concepcion is moving toward construction this year, positioning the town as a major contributor to the Visayas power grid. 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/concepcion-set-to-host-142-mw-solar-farm-visayas-seen-to-get-electricity-supply-boost/" title="Panay News" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.panaynews.net/concepcion-set-to-host-142-mw-solar-farm-visayas-seen-to-get-electricity-supply-boost/</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 24, 2026 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Solar energy Concepcion 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 underscores faith-centered roots of Dinagyang as ‘hermano mayor’ By Ime Sornito -Saturday, January 24, 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 — Even as Dinagyang Festival continues to grow into one of the country’s biggest cultural and tourism events, Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. reminded Ilonggos that the festival’s true foundation remains deeply religious, urging the public not to lose sight of its devotion to Señor Santo Niño. After his recent installation as hermano mayor, Defensor stressed that Dinagyang, like town fiestas honoring patron saints, should never be reduced to spectacle alone, as its very source and meaning come from the celebration of the Santo Niño. “Let us celebrate ining kapistahan naton with that in mind… una don’t overlook nga this is the celebration of the church,” Defensor said, noting that this was his first time to be installed as hermano mayor (elder church lay leader), alongside his wife, First Lady Michelle Defensor, who was named hermana mayor. Defensor said Dinagyang’s religious core should always guide how the festivities are observed, even as the event continues to serve as a platform for broader initiatives of the provincial government. He expressed gratitude that the festival has also allowed the province to roll out key programs, including the launch of a new executive order and the use of Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan as a venue for implementing the province’s tourism development plan. “Salamat sa simbahan naton, to the parish for the celebration of the Santo Niño, kapistahan ini sia. This is the fiesta celebration…That we have an opportunity to celebrate in this way kay man ang tanan nga ini mahalin gid ina dira,” Defensor said. “When you have something like this, many good things happened… the celebration is already a platform of the implementation of our tourism development plan. So, we are thankful that we have this celebration.” The governor also shared his personal appreciation for the role, saying he readily accepted the responsibility that comes with being hermano mayor. “I’m very happy that they choose me and I accept it. I was expose to that kind of responsibility and were very happy to take part, it has become an integral part of the festivity,” Defensor said. “I’m very happy nga ako ginpili nila nga nabal-an ko na kon ano na sia nga responsibilidad.” The installation rites were held at around 5:30 p.m. on January 16 at San Jose de Placer Parish Church, and were officiated by Fr. Nelson Zerda. The titles hermano and hermana mayor, rooted in Hispanic tradition and meaning “older brother” and “older sister,” refer to lay leaders entrusted with supporting and overseeing religious activities related to the feast in Filipino Catholic celebrations./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. [ 2026, January 24 ]. Defensor underscores faith-centered roots of Dinagyang as ‘hermano mayor’. 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 Defensor underscores faith-centered roots of Dinagyang as ‘hermano mayor’ Description An account of the resource ILOILO — Even as Dinagyang Festival continues to grow into one of the country’s biggest cultural and tourism events, Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. reminded Ilonggos that the festival’s true foundation remains deeply religious, urging the public not to lose sight of its devotion to Señor Santo Niño. 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-underscores-faith-centered-roots-of-dinagyang-as-hermano-mayor/" title="Panay News" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.panaynews.net/defensor-underscores-faith-centered-roots-of-dinagyang-as-hermano-mayor/</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 24, 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 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