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 after the moray eel (bakasi), a prized local delicacy found in the town’s rich fishing grounds. The festival is celebrated every August 16 in honor of San Roque, Cordova’s patron saint, who is believed to protect fishermen from storms and bless the community with abundant catch. In 2010, the festival was officially renamed Dinagat Festival, with “dinagat” meaning of the sea, reflecting the town’s close connection with marine life and livelihood.


 The highlight of the festival is the street dancing competition, where participants—mostly students,   barangay groups, and youth organizations—wear colorful sea-inspired costumes and perform lively   dances that mimic waves, fishing activities, and marine creatures. These dances often tell stories of   Cordova’s fishing traditions, struggles at sea, and gratitude for blessings received.
 Aside from street dancing, the festival also features: 

Pasundayag (Grand Showdown) – A final performance by contingents, showcasing artistry and storytelling.



Festival Queen Competition: A highlight event where contenders—typically representing various barangays—compete through costume, grace, and talent to embody the spirit and culture of Cordova



Religious Processions and Masses – In honor of San Roque.
The entire town of Cordova participates, with streets filled with music, drums, costumes, and community cheer.





Being part of the Dinagat Festival feels like standing in the middle of a living, breathing ocean. The dancers’ movements rise and fall like waves, while the pounding of drums echoes the rhythm of the sea. I remember seeing a performance where a group of dancers dramatized a fishing voyage, complete with storms, prayer to San Roque, and a joyful return with baskets full of catch. The crowd clapped and cheered, not only because of the performance but because it reflected their own lives and faith. It was clear that every step, every beat, and every costume carried the pride of Cordova’s people.



The Dinagat Festival is more than just a celebration—it is Cordova’s cultural identity. It unites the community, strengthens devotion to San Roque, and highlights the importance of the sea to daily life. The event also attracts tourists, boosting local businesses and promoting Cordova as a cultural destination. For the youth, the festival is a living tradition where they learn about fishing heritage, artistry, and faith. More than entertainment, the Dinagat Festival is a reminder of resilience, gratitude, and unity among the Cordovahanons.









https://www.hellotravel.com/events/cordova-dinagat-festival#google_vignette


https://www.sunstar.com.ph/superbalita-cebu/balita/dinagat-festival-sa-cordova


https://visayandailystar.com/valladolids-pasundayag-fest-winners-known/


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EsgpisT8Cb0


https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1378986309670392


Here are the citation links only:














 








Location: Cordova, Cebu, Philippines

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