Cadiz City: The highlights of the 2025 Dinagsa Festival of Cadiz City in Negros Occidental drew some 500,000 revelers, while businesses generated an estimated PHP1 billion in revenues after its conclusion Sunday night, Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr. said on Tuesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the annual festival, the city’s version of Ati-Atihan, has become a major tourist attraction in northern Negros. It is named after the Hiligaynon word ‘dinagsa’ which means flocked, referring to the historic landing of 12 sperm whales on its shores on May 7, 1967. In an interview, Escalante mentioned that the festival has evolved into a wholesome, friendly, and clean event, attracting a significantly increased crowd as estimated by the Philippine National Police.

The mayor observed a notable shift in the demographics of the attendees, with foreign nationals making up about 80 percent of the grandstand viewing area this year, compared to only 10 to 20 percent in previous years. This change highlights the festival’s growing international appeal and the accommodating spirit of the locals, who prioritize the experience of visitors.

Revelers also traveled from various regions across the Visayas, including Panay, Cebu, Negros Oriental, Siquijor, and Bohol, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of the festival. Escalante shared insights from a survey conducted during the event, revealing that the festival generated sales exceeding PHP1 billion, boosting the local economy significantly.

The economic impact extended beyond stall sales, as attendees’ expenditures on transportation, fuel, and food consumption also contributed to the overall revenue. Escalante estimated that with a profit margin of 20 percent, businesses gained PHP150 to PHP200 million, with shopping malls and eateries experiencing high demand.

This year’s festivities marked the grand culmination of the 50th Dinagsa Festival, climaxing on January 26 with the Ati-Atihan street dance competition and the traditional ‘Lamhitanay sa Dalan,’ where revelers joyfully smeared each other’s faces and clothes with colorful paints. Tribu Sicablun Quatro from Barangays Sicaba, Luna, and Zone 4 emerged as the street dance champion, securing the grand prize of P200,000 cash along with two minor awards for Best in Costume and Best Choreography.