PALO, Leyte — The much-awaited grand festival in Leyte will not happen this year.

The executive committee of the Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival, in a statement posted in its official social media page, says this year’s festival is canceled after only three contingents were able to confirm their participation following the May 12 local and national elections.

“After much thought and close consultation with our stakeholders, we announce with heavy hearts that the Kasadyaan Festival of Festivals 2025 will be postponed to 2026,” the announcement stated.

The annual festival — dubbed as festival of festivals — is usually held two days before the June 30 Tacloban Fiesta as part of the month-long series of activities for the fiesta in honor of Señor Sto. Niño.

Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival is a cultural-religious celebration that includes a grand parade around the city and ritual dance presentations pitting different festivals from various municipalities around Eastern Visayas and nearby provinces.

“We understand how much this festival means to Leyteños — not just as an annual tradition, but as a celebration of our identity, heritage, and unity. Kasadyaan has always been a time to gather, dance, and take pride in our culture. That’s why this decision was not made lightly,” the committee stated.

“With fewer contingents confirmed, postponing is the right choice to keep the heart and soul of the festival vibrant and true,” it added.

The organizers, however, promised to have the festival back next year.

“This extra time will allow us to regroup, collaborate more deeply with our communities, and prepare for a comeback that’s bigger, brighter, and more inclusive than ever before,” it said.