Iloilo students join Sadsad religious dance ahead of Dinagyang Festival

High School students from different barangays in Iloilo City dance to beat of the drums in the Sadsad religious merry-making event on Saturday, January 25, 2020.

Photos by Danny Pata

Sadsad, formerly called "Kasadyahan" has evolved into a street dance competition that takes place as a prelude to the Dinagyang Festival in honor of the Sto. Niño (Child Jesus).

During the Kasadyahan, Ilongos offer thanksgiving for a good harvest. But later, the local government and the Church decided to refocus the harvest tradition to thanksgiving for their Patron Sto. Niño.

Sadsad is Ilonggo word for a religious merry-making. —Danny Pata/LBG, GMA News