VP Duterte joins Iligan's traditional Pakanaug fiesta opening rites

ILIGAN CITY — Vice President Sara Duterte joined hundreds of devotees in Iligan City on Sunday for the Pakanaug, a traditional ceremonial lowering of the image of St. Michael the Archangel from its pedestal at St. Michael's Cathedral.

The ritual, which marks the beginning of the city's fiesta festivities, saw the saint's image carried in procession through the streets as residents gathered to pay homage. The Pakanaug is an integral part of Iligan's religious and cultural calendar, drawing participants from across the city and surrounding communities.

The month-long fiesta celebration will feature various religious observances, cultural activities, and community events dedicated to the city's patron saint. The festival reflects the deep devotion of Iligan's residents to St. Michael the Archangel and serves as a significant occasion for the predominantly Catholic city.

Duterte's participation in the ceremony underscored the event's importance in the Mindanao region's religious calendar and highlighted the vice president's continued engagement with local celebrations in her home region.