The streets of this city came alive with vibrant colors and rhythms as the "Kasadya sa Street Dancing and Merrymaking Competition" took center stage, marking a dazzling highlight of this year's month-long Diyandi Festival.

The event, held in honor of the city's patron saint, Senior San Miguel, has drawn participants from various schools and towns, showcasing their exuberance and celebrating the rich cultural diversity of the tri-people of the city—namely, the Higaonon, Maranao, and Christian or settlers.

The competition not only showcased the immense talent and dedication of the participants but also promoted unity, culture, and artistic prowess.

“For the first time in history, pinakadako nga premyo ang gihatag sa atong lgu, sa ato palang seed money tanang contingents naka receive og P300,000 [For the first time in history, the largest prize has been given by our LGU, with each contingent receiving P300,000 as seed money]," said City Administrator Darwin Manubag.

Triumph in diversity

In the local category, ten contingents from different schools in the city competed passionately, highlighting the unique cultures of the tri-people. The grand champion title was claimed by Tomas Cabili National High School, which secured a prize of P300,000. They also swept the minor awards, including Best in San Miguel, Best in Maranao, Best in Musicality, Best in Yawa-Yawa (Devil), Best in Battle, Best Eskrima, and Best in Street Dancing.

Meanwhile, Kiwalan National High School secured the 1st runner-up spot, earning a cash prize of P200,000, while Iligan City National High School secured the 2nd runner-up spot with a cash prize of P100,000. Additionally, they also took home the Best Diyandi Festival Queen award.

Kyle Macaliag, a Grade 10 student from Kalubihon National High School, expressed his happiness and excitement about being part of the competition again. It was his first time performing as San Miguel, and he felt proud of himself.

“Ganahan ko kay isa man ni sa akong talent. Proud ko na ipakita nako kung unsa akong kaya buhaton [I like joining in this competition because this is one of my talents. I am proud to show what I can do],” he said.

Kyle also emphasized the importance of teamwork, execution, listening to their trainer, and how they never let their trainer down during their preparations.

Meanwhile, Jelay Lopez, dressed as one of the devils representing Tubaran National High School, expressed her joy in celebrating Senior San Miguel's festival. She felt proud to showcase their experiences during Typhoon Sendong, which made their performance unique.

Diverse participation

In the open-invitational category, Barangay Gusa from Cagayan de Oro City (CDO) emerged as the grand champion, winning a cash prize of P700,000. They also bagged the Best in Battle and Best in Musicality awards.

On the other hand, Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte secured the 1st runner-up spot with a prize of P300,000 and bagged the Best in Street Dancing award.

Tomi Yacapin, a participant from CDO, expressed his eagerness to take on his role as one of the yawa (devils). With a dedicated practice period of nine days, they were not only focused on perfecting their props but also on uniting to deliver a flawless performance.

“Aside sa props, nagkahiusa pod para mahinlo jud ang among pagperform. [Besides the props, we also worked together to ensure that our performance was executed flawlessly],” she said.

Moreover, Jillian Alfar from Kauswagan expressed her gratitude to all those who supported them and acknowledged Senior San Miguel for guiding them throughout their participation in the event.

“I’m so happy and grateful nga nakaapil mi ani nga event. Sobra ka happy, thankful ko sa mga nagsuporta sa amoa, kay Sr. San Miguel nga nag-guide namo sa among pag-apil ani nga event. [I'm so happy and grateful that we were able to participate in this event. I am extremely happy and thankful to those who supported us and to Senior San Miguel, who guided us throughout our participation in this event],” she said.

The Kasadya sa Street Dancing and Merrymaking Competition not only showcased the talent and culture of the city but also fostered a sense of unity and pride among its residents and tourists. This annual celebration continues to be a testament to the city's vibrant spirit and rich heritage. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)