Cabadbaran City celebrates Dagkot Festival
By Nora Lanuza Molde
CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte – The spirit of faith and festivity illuminated the Cabadbaran City Sports Complex as hundreds of devotees, performers, and visitors gathered to celebrate the annual Dagkot Festival — a vibrant expression of gratitude through music, dance, and the traditional lighting of candles.
Deeply rooted in the city’s religious and cultural heritage, the festival featured a spectacular street dancing and showdown competition, where participants donned colorful costumes and delivered dynamic performances. The streets and the sports complex pulsed with energy, devotion, and an overwhelming sense of community.
Cabadbaran City Mayor Judy Chin Amante emphasized the festival’s significance beyond mere celebration.
“The Dagkot Festival is a religious event that honors our city’s patron saint, Our Lady of the Candle (Nuestra Señora de Candelaria). It is not just a festivity but a true expression of devotion and our commitment to preserving the city’s rich tradition,” she said.
Among those who benefitted from the event was Jabber Mona, an entrepreneur from Butuan City who set up his ‘ukay’ booth and sold second-hand clothing during the festivities. Expressing his gratitude, Mona commended the well-organized and peaceful nature of the celebration.
“Dako kaayo mi ug halin, bibo pa gyud kaayo, walay kagubot nga among na-experience. Dako kaayo ko ug pasalamat sa organizers ug labi na sa city government sa Cabadbaran (Our income is big and the event was very lively and orderly. I am extremely grateful to the organizers and especially to the city government of Cabadbaran),” Mona said.
One of the performers in the competition echoed the same sentiment, highlighting how the festival served as a testament to Cabadbaran’s thriving culture and strong faith in a bright future ahead.
“Our culture and trust in a prosperous future remain alive. During this time, the local economy flourishes as vendors and buyers from different places come together,” she said.
Recognized as the largest and most significant candle lighting celebration in the Caraga region, the Dagkot Festival symbolizes the triumph that comes from faith, unity, and cultural heritage. Each flame represents a collective aspiration for continuous success and prosperity, reinforcing the deeply rooted traditions of Cabadbaran City.
The Dagkot Festival was first launched in 2008 during the administration of then-Mayor Dale B. Corvera. Despite various challenges over the years, the festival has endured and flourished, marking its 18th year of celebration.
“I am happy that the festival continues to thrive, and I am glad that the culture, faith, and unity of the Cabadbaranons remain strong,” said Corvera, who now serves as the congressional representative of the 2nd district of Agusan del Norte.
With each year, the Dagkot Festival grows not only in grandeur but also in its impact, bridging generations through faith, fostering economic opportunities, and celebrating the indomitable spirit of Cabadbaran City. (NCLM, PIA-Agusan del Norte)
