Muntinlupa sets Dinagsa Fest

MANILA, Philippines - The City of Muntinlupa celebrates its rich religious and cultural heritage as it marks the annual Dinagsa Festival and Sto. Niño de Muntinlupa Fiesta starting tomorrow, Feb. 18 to 19. 

Held annually on the weekend before Ash Wednesday, the celebration is a tribute to the city’s patron saint which is an emerging pilgrimage destination in the metropolis.

Culled from the Filipino word “dagsa” which literally means swarm, the feast represents the people’s flocking to the Sto. Niño Chapel in Bgy. Poblacion to receive God’s blessings. It also refers to the swarming to the streets to join the merry-making.

The tradition dates back to 1862 when the image of the Sto. Niño was traded by a poor couple to fisherman Joaquin Arciaga, in exchange for a small bucket of palay.

Over the years, the image has cultivated a religious following from devotees from all over the country.

The religious observance received a modern revival in 2004 with the inception of the Dinagsa Festival, a much-awaited cultural extravaganza.

The event’s highlight is the street dancing parade which commences at the Muntinlupa Sports Complex, tomorrow, Feb. 18 at 2 p.m., with paraders in colorful costumes showcasing the indigenous cultures of the Philippines.

Brass band music will waft in the air in the evening serenata for the community after the parade.

Festivities conclude on Sunday, Feb. 19 with the traditional patronal fiesta observance.

Because of its pomp and pageantry, the festival was adjudged second runner-up the Best Tourism Event (Festival Category) in 2009 and 2010 by the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP).

“Dinagsa Festival showcases the local folks’ warm hospitality and religiosity despite the modernity the city is undergoing,” says Muntinlupa City Mayor Aldrin San Pedro.

He added that it is a unique opportunity to reflect on God’s faithfulness Lord for the internal peace, progress and spiritual deliverance Muntinlupa is experiencing.

The festival, which is supported by the private sector and business locators in the city, will also serve as a fitting prelude to the observance of Muntinlupa’s 17th Cityhood Day on March 1.