ILLUSTRATED BY JAYLORD S. LOSABIA
In the vibrant city of Iloilo, where the Dinagyang Festival brings the streets alive with music, dance, and vibrant costumes, two siblings, Dino and Dina, spent their weekend helping their dad sell balloons in the midst of the festive chaos. Despite the crowds and the scorching heat, Dino and Dina tackled their task with excitement, totally amazed by the explosion of colors and the electrifying atmosphere that engulfed the city during this annual celebration of faith and culture.
One special moment stood out during their weekend adventure: a visit to San Jose Church, where they took a pause to pray to Sto. Nino, for their mom who had been working in Manila for years. Holding hands in front of the fancy altar, amidst the flickering candles and swirling incense, they found comfort in their faith, hoping for her homecoming. This moment of calm reflection amidst the festival's hustle highlighted the siblings' resilience and the deep-rooted faith that kept them grounded during tough times.
As they got back to selling balloons, Juan and Maria couldn't help but notice the incredible diversity of people gathered for the festival—locals dressed in traditional garb, tourists captivated by the spectacle, and performers embodying dances that have been around for centuries. Through their interactions with customers and festival-goers, the siblings discovered the power of unity and cultural pride, realizing that Dinagyang wasn't just about having a good time, but also about preserving traditions and fostering a sense of community.
In the end, Dino and Dina's weekend at the Dinagyang Festival became a testament to their family's strength, their unwavering faith, and the beauty of celebrating Filipino culture amidst one of the country's most lively and colorful festivals.
PLEASE USE THIS BOOK FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. NO PART OF THIS BOOK MUST BE USED FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSES WHATSOEVER.
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