Dinagat Festival: Celebrating the Sea in Cordova, Cebu
The Dinagat Festival in Cordova, Cebu, is an annual celebration that honors the town’s deep connection to the sea and the fishing industry. It is a vibrant and exciting event where the community comes together to showcase their way of life and their gratitude for the blessings of the ocean. Origin and History The Dinagat Festival began in 1999 as a way to promote Cordova’s fishing industry and honor St. Roch, the town’s patron saint, who is believed to protect fishermen. Cordova is a coastal town, and much of its livelihood depends on fishing and other marine resources. The festival serves as a reminder of how vital the sea is to the town's economy and culture. Dinagat, which comes from the word “dagat” (meaning "sea" in Cebuano), highlights the importance of the ocean in the lives of the people of Cordova. Over the years, the festival has grown to become a much-anticipated event, drawing visitors from all over Cebu and beyond. What Ha...