CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY—Iligan City kicked off on Thursday its month-long "Diyandi" Festival with a budget of PHP12.5 million.
In a press briefing, Cathy Tan, chairperson of the festival executive management board, said the budget would be spent on official events organized by the city government.
"This fiesta is for the people and all events will be given prizes so that the celebration will be vibrant," she said.
Tan said all proponents of the festival's events were given opportunities to present and organize.
Mayor Frederick Siao said the local government was unable to celebrate the festival in the last two years because of the pandemic, and resources have to be focused on the area of public health. During that time, Siao said they had no vaccines available.
"In this development, after two years, we have enough vaccinated people, and we are opening up the markets," he said.
Siao said the observance of health protocols is still a must during the transition from the pandemic and in opening the new normal in the city.
Siao said this year's celebration is also about recovery, a new chapter, and new life for the city residents.
The Diyandi Festival coincides with the religious fiesta for its Catholic patron saint, Senior San Miguel. (PNA)
