Commemorating the 500th Anniversary of Christianity in Iloilo, the University of San Agustin unveiled the winning piece of the 2021 Dinagyang Monument Competition at Esplanade 4, April 2.

The ceremonial inauguration of Arch. Adonis Canonicato's winning design was celebrated in coordination with the Zonta Club of Iloilo City, Office of the City Mayor, Office of the Congressman of Lone District of Iloilo City, Province of Iloilo, and the Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc.

"For all of us who are afraid of the pandemic, let this be our cause and inspiration, let us keep fighting, fighting the pandemic," stated Fr. Frederick Commendador, OSA, USA President, as he encouraged the public to anticipate the full implementation of the Dinagyang Monument.

The monument was inspired by the major events that had happened in history from the giving of the Sto. Niño de Cebu image to Queen Juana in 1521, the rediscovery of the image of the Sto. Niño de Cebu, and the birth of the Dinagyang Festival through the Sto. Niño.