The drum beats were deafening, the chants reverberating, and every time performers stomped their feet, hearts are pumping.
Never mind the heat, their movements never faltered displaying cultural performances that depict the story of diversity and unity in the recently concluded Kalivungan Festival.
The Provincial Government of Cotabato celebrated the Kalivungan Festival, which marked its 110th founding anniversary on September 1, 2024.
Kalivungan is derived from a Manobo dialect and signifies gathering or assembly.
The performers in multicolored dresses amped the vibe with their dancing and singing for the street dancing competition held at the provincial grandstand in Amas, Kidapawan City.
This year’s street dancing competition was participated by seven contingents who gave their all for the most coveted title of being named champion of the grandest festival of the province. When the dust settled, the M’lang National High School of the Municipality of M’lang emerged not only as the grand prize winner but also the Best in Musicality.
Bagging the 1st Runner-up and 2nd Runner-up were the Municipality of Midsayap and Kidapawan City, respectively, while Kabacan, Libungan, Banisilan, and Pikit each received a consolation prize worth P100,000.
The festival carries the theme, “Cotabato at 110: Embracing Diversity, Celebrating Unity and Progress.”
