South Cotabato, Philippines – The 3rd Saot T’nalak Folk Dance Competition will bring culture, rhythm, and excitement back to the South Cotabato Cultural Gymnasium on July 10, 2025, at 7:00 PM, immediately after the Interfaith Thanksgiving Celebration.
For the first time, the competition opens its Tertiary Level division to participants across Mindanao, marking a significant milestone in its history. Meanwhile, the Elementary and Secondary Levels will continue to showcase the homegrown talent of South Cotabato.
A total of 23 groups will compete across three divisions:
Elementary Level: Four groups from Surallah, Lake Sebu, Koronadal, and Polomolok
Secondary Level: Six groups from various municipalities in South Cotabato
Tertiary Level: Thirteen entries from Midsayap, General Santos City, Digos (Davao del Sur), Davao City, and Koronadal
Each team, composed of six pairs or twelve dancers, will draw lots to determine their assigned pieces. After consulting with the committee and participating schools, the organisers assigned Western-influenced dances to the tertiary level and Rural Folk Dances to the elementary and secondary levels.
Atty. Marnito Cosep, Chair of the Saot Folk Dance Competition Committee, emphasized the excitement surrounding this year’s generous prizes.
“May ara kita Consolation Prizes kag Dako abi aton Prizes,” he said, assuring all teams that they will receive rewards for their efforts
Cash prizes for each level are as follows:
Elementary & Secondary Levels
Champion – ₱50,000
1st Runner-up – ₱30,000
2nd Runner-up – ₱20,000
Consolation – ₱10,000 per entry
Tertiary Level
Champion – ₱100,000
1st Runner-up – ₱75,000
2nd Runner-up – ₱55,000
3rd Runner-up – ₱35,000
4th Runner-up – ₱25,000
Consolation – ₱15,000 per entry
Atty. Cosep confirmed that organizers are finalizing preparations smoothly and face no significant issues. He invites everyone to join in the celebration:
“We invite everyone to come and witness this vibrant celebration of culture and youth talent during the 3rd Saot T’nalak Folk Dance Competition.”
Mark your calendars for July 10! Get ready for an unforgettable night of dance, heritage, and Mindanaoan pride.
