Five schools and barangays here transformed the Anahaw Amphitheater at City Hall into a radiant canvas of colors and rhythmic movements with the first ever Hugyaw Ilaw sa Iligan 2023: Dance of Light competition.
It was an extravaganza of dazzling lights, vibrant costumes, and innovative choreography showcasing the spirit of Christmas.
Barangay Luinab was hailed as the grand champion and received a P100,000 cash prize. The Lyceum of Iligan Foundation secured the 1st runner-up spot and won P70,000, while Barangay Del Carmen claimed the 2nd runner-up spot with a P50,000 cash prize.
Meanwhile, Christian Horizon School Inc. won the Most Hugyaw Group award and received P5,000.
Platform for expression
As the choreographer of Barangay Luinab, Jayrald Briones shared that they had only three weeks to prepare. They had to travel for 8 hours to rent their costumes in Tangub, Misamis Oriental, renowned for its Christmas Symbols Festival. With 12 years of experience as a choreographer, he has traveled to various locations to showcase his talent. He also expressed gratitude for the opportunity provided to the children and local talents in Iligan.
“Among edge is lahi ni sya nga preparation. Among twist is lights with carnival nga naa japon ang spirit of Christmas [Our edge, among others, is our unique preparation. Our twist involved lights with a carnival while still embodying the spirit of Christmas],” he said.
Meanwhile, Kent Ian James Manegos from Christian Horizon shared that they dedicated a whole month to preparing for the competition. He emphasized the beauty of their performance, expressing their dance with heartfelt emotions to convey the Christmas vibe and captivate the audience. Their group managed their time effectively, handling academic and extracurricular commitments.
“Nice kaayo ni nga event kay ma-express sa students, sa young teenager ang ilang talent for dancing [This event is really nice as it allows students, young teenagers, to express their talent for dancing],” he said.
Barangay Luinab receives P100,000 cash prize as the grand champion of the Hugyaw Ilaw sa Iligan 2023 : Dance of Light competition. . (ADD/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
Dancing community spirits
Daisy Mae Paradela from Barangay Del Carmen shared her fondness for dancing, as it allows her to communicate and make new friends. She appreciates how dance has brought her neighbors and acquaintances closer. Daisy is also happy with the hard work of their team and is grateful for the support from their community.
Meanwhile, Aisah Baruang of Iligan Capitol College shared that they diligently practiced choreography after class, emphasizing teamwork and their use of recycled materials for props.
On the other hand, Cheryl Ongcoy from the Lyceum of Iligan Foundation is proud of their performance and achievement without hiring a choreographer and only relied on their collective efforts.
“Proud kaayo mi kay sa among mga lights kay kami-kami ra. Among choreographers, kay among dean sa customs admin. Gitabangan ra jud namo [We’re very proud of our lights because they’re all us. Our choreographer is our dean from the Customs Administration. We really helped each other],” she said.
Barangay Del Carmen wins as the 2nd runner-up of the Hugyaw Ilaw sa Iligan 2023 : Dance of Light competition. (ADD/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
Fostering unity
Mayor Frederick Siao highlighted the significance of Christmas activities in Iligan as part of tourism promotion, aiming for year-round events to attract both local and international tourists. He also praised the Hugyaw Ilaw festivities, expressing appreciation for the participants and their involvement.
“For those Iliganon, this is a message of goodwill, a message of unity for all of us. Merry Christmas to everyone. And I’m hoping we can be together para aning cause para sa kalambuan sa atong syudad sa (for this cause for the progress of) Iligan. We would like everyone to participate and be a part of this revolution,” he said.
Vice Mayor Marianito Alemania expressed delight with the participation of the residents in the competition
Moreover, residents and tourists also enjoyed various booths showcasing the ‘Christmas Around the World’ theme at City Hall, featuring Christmas destinations like Japan, South Korea, Spain, and others.
The City Hall also featured booths portraying ‘Christmas Around the World,’ offering glimpses of Japan, South Korea, Spain, France, Norway, and more.
Hugyaw Ilaw sa Iligan, with its sparkling rhythm, celebrated talent, teamwork, and true Christmas spirit, reflects the city’s cultural richness and the power of unity. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
The city government showcases South Korea as a Christmas Destination. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
