THE THRIVING City of Isabela transformed into a kaleidoscope of heritage and hope as it successfully celebrated the Sakayan Festival, marking a monumental milestone as the city turns 25. This year’s festivities, anchored on the theme “Reflections and Direction @25,” served as both a look back at a quarter-century of progress and a visionary leap toward a future defined by collective prosperity.
The history of the festival is deeply rooted in the maritime soul of the Isabeleños. Originally conceived to honor the seafaring traditions of the diverse ethnic groups that call the island home, the festival has evolved into a grand showcase of the “vessels of life” that link the past to the present. This year, the celebration emphasized these boats not just as tools for fishing or transport, but as symbols of a community navigating toward a happy, dignified, and progressive life for every Isabeleño.
After a week-long series of festivities, Sakayan reached its fever pitch on its culminating day, May 2, with the staging of the highly anticipated Parada Sakayan Boat Float Competition, where the waters of Isabela Strait became a moving gallery of history. In a stunning display of artistry and culture, the Department of Education–Isabela City Schools Division was unanimously declared the grand champion. Their float offered an animated and colorful rendition of Tausug culture, earning them the top spot along with a 170,000 PHP cash prize and a plaque of recognition.
The competition was fierce, with each entry representing a different thread of the Filipino fabric. The Department of Labor and Employment took second place with a tribute to the Sama Bangingi, followed by the National Commission for Indigenous Peoples, highlighting the Bajau in third. Basilan National High School’s Maranao-themed entry secured fourth, while the Provincial Government of Basilan honored the Yakan in fifth.
The diversity continued with Infante Hospital Management, Inc. showcasing Ilocano heritage in sixth, and the Department of Public Works and Highways representing Ilonggo culture in seventh. Adding a unique flair to the fluvial parade, Anak Mindanao made a special participation that beautifully showcased Chavacano culture.
The difficult task of selecting the winners fell upon a distinguished board of judges, comprised of personalities from the heritage, arts, tourism, and media sectors. The panel included Museum Curator Maria Fe Quiroga, Dumaguete’s Kahayag Dance Company choreographer Raynald Aguit, Dipolog City Public Relations Officer Charles Anthony Rotoni, and the National Museum of the Philippines–Zamboanga Supervising Administrative Officer Maria Rosalinda Fernando, alongside this writer.
This successful silver anniversary celebration is a testament to the visionary governance in the region. Heartfelt congratulations are in order for the local government of Isabela de Basilan, led by the able and inspiring Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin Hataman, whose leadership has been instrumental in fostering an environment where culture and progress go hand in hand.
Special recognition also goes to the very active City Tourism Officer, our dear friend Claudio Ramos II, whose dedication and tireless efforts turned this ambitious vision into a reality that will be remembered for years to come. As the sails of the “sakayans” are lowered, the people of Isabela City surely look forward with a renewed sense of pride and a clear direction for the next twenty-five years.
