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.
The festival, deeply rooted in the city’s religious and cultural heritage, 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 festival that honors our city’s patron saint, Our Lady of the Candle (Nuestra SeΓ±ora de Candelaria). It is not just a festivity but a true expression of devotion and our commitment to preserving the city's rich traditions,” she said.
Among those who benefitted from the event was Jabber Mona, an entrepreneur from Butuan City who set up his ‘Ukay’ (second-hand clothing) business during the festivities. Expressing his gratitude, Mona observed on 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 local government unit,” Mona shared. (We had great sales, and the event was very lively. There was no trouble at all. I am extremely grateful to the organizers and especially to the local government unit.)
One of the performers in the competition echoed the same sentiment, highlighting how the festival serves as a testament to Cabadbaran’s thriving culture and faith in a bright future.
“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 continued 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 Representative of the 2nd Congressional 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)