Extreme heat downs several performers during Iligan’s Diyandi Festival

ILIGAN CITY — Several performers collapsed due to extreme heat during the Diyandi Festival here on Sunday, held in celebration of the city’s patronal fiesta in honor of Saint Michael the Archangel.

Six contingents joined the Kasadya Street Dancing and Showdown Competition at the Anahaw Amphitheater.

READ: Diyandi Festival toasts cultural harmony in Iligan

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Rio Jimenez, deputy head for operations of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), said extreme heat exhausted an undetermined number of performers and audience members.

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He said at least 10 members of each contingent were immediately given first aid after their performances.

Three individuals were brought to a nearby hospital for medical attention, he said.

Personnel from the CDRRMO, Philippine Red Cross and City Health Office attended to those affected by heat exhaustion, Jimenez said.

The city recorded a heat index of 40 degrees Celsius at 11:30 a.m., he said.

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The Kasadya Street Dancing and Showdown Competition is one of the traditional events of the Diyandi Festival.

The performers portrayed the unity of Iliganons through the traditional Diyandi dance, which depicts the triumph of good over evil.

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Residents called on Saint Michael the Archangel, the city’s patron saint, to help ward off Satan. /mcm