KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — The stage is set for an exciting showcase of local musical talent as 12 emerging bands from across Mindanao advance to the semifinal round of the Rakrakan sa T’nalak 2026: Battle of the Bands, one of the highly anticipated events of this year’s T’nalak Festival celebration.
Jimmy Gayanilo, Committee staff, said in an interview, the semifinal competitions will be held from July 13 to 15, starting at 6:30 p.m., at the Rakrakan Stage along Alunan Avenue in the City of Koronadal.
The event will feature talented bands representing different areas in Mindanao, including Cagayan de Oro City, Bukidnon, General Santos City, Kidapawan City, City of Koronadal, Kabacan, and Polomolok.
Competing in the first semifinal round last July 13 were Ground Zero of Cagayan de Oro City, Saikou of General Santos City, The Coolant of Kidapawan City, and GG Band of the City of Koronadal. These bands will showcase their musical skills and stage performances as they compete for a spot in the championship round.s
Last night, July 14, the spotlight will be given to Zenruh of Bukidnon, Alunsina of General Santos City, The Acetone of General Santos City, and Caterpool of Polomolok.
Completing the semifinal lineup on July 15 are Whitehouse of General Santos City, 4J’s Band of Kabacan, Coffee Break Band of Kidapawan City, and Undertones of Koronadal City.
“The competition will reach its climax during the Grand Finals on July 17 at 7:00 p.m., where the top-performing bands from the semifinal rounds will battle for the championship title and recognition as this year’s best emerging musical act,” Gayanilo said.
Festival organizers said the Rakrakan sa T’nalak: Battle of the Bands continues to provide a platform for discovering, supporting, and promoting homegrown musical talents in Mindanao. The event also adds energy and excitement to the annual T’nalak Festival, which celebrates the rich culture and traditions of South Cotabato.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to witness the performances and support the participating bands as they compete for a place in the grand finals.
