KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato – The much-awaited 27th T’nalak Festival Thematic Dance Competition is set to take center stage on July 13, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at the South Cotabato Gym and Cultural Center, bringing together four contingents in a vibrant celebration of the province’s culture, heritage, and artistic excellence.
Rio Ann Padrones, Thematic Dance Competition Committee member, said this year’s competition carries the theme “Damgo kag Gahum: A Convergence of Heroic Tales and Legends,” which challenges participating groups to creatively interpret local myths, legends, and comic book-inspired stories through dance, music, and theatrical performance.
“Competing for this year’s championship are LGU Koronadal, LGU Lake Sebu, the defending champion, LGU Polomolok, and MELTS Corporation & Global Local Tri-People Association,” Padrones shared.
Each contingent will showcase a five to eight-minute production featuring 50 performers, highlighting their creativity, choreography, costumes, and storytelling while reflecting the rich cultural identity of South Cotabato.
To ensure a high standard of competition, the Provincial Government has invited a panel of distinguished judges from across Mindanao, composed of respected experts in dance, theater, music, and the performing arts.
A total of ₱510,000 in cash prizes awaits the winning contingents. The Champion will receive ₱200,000, while the 1st Runner-up will take home ₱150,000, the 2nd Runner-up will receive ₱100,000, and the 3rd Runner-up will be awarded ₱60,000.
To help each contingent prepare for the competition, the Provincial Government has also provided a ₱150,000 seed fund per team to support production expenses, costumes, props, and other performance requirements.
Rudy Jimenea, Tnalak Festival Director, said the Thematic Dance Competition remains one of the major highlights of the annual T’nalak Festival, showcasing not only the talent and creativity of participating groups but also the province’s commitment to preserving and promoting the diverse cultural traditions and stories of its people through the performing arts.
“Residents and visitors are invited to witness the colorful spectacle as the four contingents compete for this year’s championship title and bring to life stories of courage, imagination, and heritage on one grand stage,” Jimenea said.
The committee draws every sub theme from this year’s festival theme, “Our Culture, Our Strength, Our Pride.”
