A group of men exuding energy, agility, and creativity might appear to be seasoned Dinagyang warriors at first glance—but these performers are persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) from the Iloilo City District Jail Male Dormitory.
For years, the PDLs have held their own sadsad (merrymaking) performances during the Dinagyang Festival, but this is the first time their participation has been formalized. This was made possible through collaboration with the Iloilo Festivals Federation, Inc. (IFFI), said Jail Officer 1 Jerous Labrador, who leads the facility’s Community Relations Service.
“Dancing as devotion to Señor Santo Niño is a promise that even prison bars cannot prevent,” shared the participants.
Dance as Rehabilitation and Celebration
The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) highlights the importance of developmental and rehabilitation programs for PDLs. “Dinagyang is not limited to the outside; it transcends into places like this,” Labrador emphasized.
One PDL, alias “Sishi,” a choreographer and former member of a Dinagyang tribal contingent, expressed joy at having the chance to dance again as a devotion to Santo Niño. “Even inside, we celebrate the culture and devotion that Dinagyang represents,” he said.
Another PDL, alias “CJ,” a former tribe warrior, shared that dancing helps alleviate boredom and provides an outlet for emotional struggles. “It’s a way to escape the monotony and let go of the problems from the past,” CJ explained.
Virtual Performance in 2025, Competition Planned for 2026
The PDLs’ performance for Dinagyang 2025 will be streamed on the social media pages of the Iloilo City District Jail Male Dormitory and BJMP. Meanwhile, plans are underway to organize an internal dance competition among PDLs for the 2026 Dinagyang Festival.
This initiative not only showcases the talent and devotion of PDLs but also demonstrates how festivals like Dinagyang foster inclusion and hope, even behind bars.