Street Dancing
Usually held every 27th of September, the street dancing competition is one of the much-awaited
events during Diyandi Festival. It is at this time when the streets of Iligan become a moving theatre.
Flooded with dancers, musicians, acrobats & throngs of revelers, the city turns psychedelic. Today,
many of the elements of the traditional Diyandi are done in highly stylized ways. Contingents from
various barangays dazzle the audience with synchronized movements, orchestrated music &
acrobatic spectacles. Although it attempts to present the tri-cultural narratives of its people, but
obviously it is the spectacular entertainment factor that draws in the crowd.
While each team is free to do its artistic exhibitions, the effort to keep the Diyandi components must be
there. The “yawa-yawa” then the “anak-anak” rituals prologue it. But the appearance of Señor San
Miguel & his battle with the “yawa” always highlights the entire tableau.
I am a proud Iliganon. I have seen how the celebration evolved through the years. Some elements may
have been lost or embraced new contexts. And various interpretations of Diyandi Festival may have
sprung but one thing remains unfazed & that is the eternal devotion to our Señor San Miguel.
In our hearts, we shout, viva!