MABUNGAHON M’lang Performing Arts Guild of Municipality of M’lang emerged victorious as this year’s Kalivungan streetdance champion.
M’lang defended the crown during the grand showdown held at the Provincial Grandstand on Monday, Sept. 1, as the highlight of the culmination of the 111th Kalivungan Festival.
On top of the P1 million grand prize, M’lang also won the special awards: Best in Street Parade, Best in Musicality, and Best in Costume for a total of P300,000 cash prize.
Meanwhile, Padayaw Aleosan Performing Arts of Aleosan NHS won 1st runner up and grabbed P700,000, and Grupong Pikiteños of Sultan Memorial High School from Pikit claimed 2nd runner up with P500,000.
The other participating municipalities: Banisilan, Kabacan, Libungan, and Carmen grabbed P100,000 each for participating premium.
In her message, Governor Emmylou “Lala” J. Taliño-Mendoza highlighted that the province already celebrated its 111th founding anniversary.
“Kamo Cotabateño ang kabaskog sa atong probinsya, and I’m happy to serve you as your governor. It is really an honor, and I take pride working here in the province in serving Cotabateños because Cotabateños are united, God-fearing, may malasakit,” she said.
She also lauded the students and teachers for putting extra effort into the performances.
In her welcome message, Vice Governor Rochella Marie T. Taray emphasized that the 111th celebration is a testament to how the Cotabateños are standing united regardless of religion and race.
“For 111 years, our province has stood the test of time and continues to stand strong and proud,” Taray said.
“As we celebrate, may we also look forward to the kind of Cotabato we want to leave to the next generation- peaceful, prosperous, inclusive, and proud of our heritage, that is our shared responsibility and that is the true diwa of Cotabateño,” she added.
Kalivungan Festival is coined from the Manuvu word “Kalivungan,” which means “Gathering” or “Festival.”
In Kidapawan City, the capital of Cotabato, the first Kalivungan Festival was held on May 8, 1974.
