Under the glow of festival lights and the rhythmic beat of drums, Iloilo City once again transformed into a living tapestry of faith, culture, and color during Dinagyang Festival 2026 — a favorite among local and foreign tourists alike.
Among the most eye-catching sights was the float of the Palawan Group of Companies, an entry that clinched first runner-up at the Dinagyang Festival 2026 Parade of Lights and marked the company’s fourth consecutive year of recognition.
For Palawan Group, the win was more than just a trophy. It was a celebration of a relationship that has spanned nearly two decades.
Honoring faith while strengthening regional financial ties
Palawan Group of Companies’ float clinched first runner up at the Dinagyang Festival 2026 Floats: Parade of Lights, its fourth straight year of recognition
A sponsor of this year’s festival, the company joined thousands of Ilonggos, balikbayans, and visitors in honoring Señor Sto. Niño — while reaffirming Iloilo and the wider Visayas as a key growth market.
Dinagyang, deeply rooted in devotion and identity, became a fitting backdrop for Palawan Group to strengthen its long-standing presence as a trusted financial partner in the region.
The company’s float, adorned with floral elements and animal figures encircling an image of Señor Sto. Niño, reflected both artistry and reverence. Its recognition at the Parade of Lights underscored Palawan Group’s consistent participation in Dinagyang since 2007 — a tradition that mirrors its commitment to the community.
One with Ilonggo Sukis: Palawan Group of Companies’ Iloilo branch associates and Head Office officers celebrating Dinagyang Festival 2026.
“Dinagyang has always been a celebration of faith, unity, and resilience — values that deeply resonate with who we are as a company,” said Karlo M. Castro, President and CEO of the Palawan Group. “Our participation reflects our genuine partnership with the Ilonggo community and our role as a reliable kasangga that they can count on for their daily financial needs and future aspirations.”
Beyond the parade route, Palawan Group brought the celebration closer to the public through on-ground activities designed to engage festivalgoers.
One of the highlights was the Golden Caravan, an exclusive jewelry-selling event held from January 22 to 25 along Bonifacio Drive. The pop-up featured curated jewelry selections, interactive activities, and prizes that drew both locals and tourists into the Palawan experience.
Faith, unity meet finance at Dinagyang festival
Palawan Group of Companies’ Iloilo branch and Head Office associates at the Dinagyang Festival
Inside its branches and on PalawanPay, the company rolled out localized Dinagyang promos. These included libreng interest on sangla, discounts on select rematado jewelry, and ProtekTODO micro-insurance products meant to extend financial protection beyond the festival season. Select PalawanPay users also received vouchers to promote faster and safer cashless transactions.
“What keeps the Palawan Group close to our customers is our ability to grow with them,” said Bernard V. Kaibigan, Chief Marketing Officer. “As we introduce new services, we ensure they are grounded in how VisMin communities actually use and experience Palawan products.”
This year marked Palawan Group’s 19th year of participation in the Dinagyang Festival.
Its footprint in the province is substantial, with 113 branches across Iloilo and eight branches in Guimaras, supported by nearly 700 associates delivering what the company calls serbisyong may malasakit to local communities.
Through its presence at Dinagyang 2026, Palawan Group celebrated Ilonggo heritage while reinforcing its promise of accessible and reliable financial services.
Whether Ilonggos were celebrating with family, running small businesses, sending money to loved ones, or planning for the future, the company positioned itself as a constant — during the festival and long after the last drumbeat faded.
