The Real Story of the Dinagat Festival (Cordova, Cebu)
“From Eels to Echoes: Unveiling the Dinagat Festival of Cordova” When the streets of Cordova burst with life in August, dancers, drums, and devotion fuse into one electrifying celebration. This is the Dinagat Festival , a vivid narrative of gratitude, faith, and the sea—all encapsulated in dance, music, and community pride. The festival, initially known as the Bakasi Festival , began in 1999 , paying homage to the eel ( bakasi ), a highly valued marine resource in the area. Founded by Cristina Sitoy (with continuous support from then-mayor Adelino Sitoy and now Mayor Teche Sitoy-Cho), it has grown into a powerful cultural legacy Celebrated during the feast of San Roque (August 16), the festival is both religious tribute and livelihood celebration The Dinagat Festival of Cordova, Cebu was established in 1999 by former Mayor Arleigh Sitoy and has since become the town’s most anticipated annual event. It was originally called the Bakasi Festival , named ...