KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — After an electrifying competition that showcased exceptional choreography, synchronization, musicality, and stage presence, Notre Dame of Marbel University’s Maris Street emerged as the Champion of the first Inter Collegiate Varsity Edition, receiving P100,000, a trophy, and a certificate.
Welcoming the participants, Honorary Chairperson Honorable Marie Antonina Hurtado emphasized that dance is a universal language that transcends differences and connects people through artistic expression.
“Through dance, young people express themselves beyond words. Hip hop allows them to communicate their passion, discipline, and creativity while building friendships across communities. We are proud to welcome all participants to South Cotabato and celebrate not only modern dance but also the rich culture and traditions that define our province,” Hurtado said.
The Provincial Government of South Cotabato gathered the region’s most talented collegiate dancers as it successfully staged the 6th Mindanao Wide-Open Hip-Hop Dance Competition featuring the first Inter Collegiate Varsity Edition during the celebration of the 27th Tnalak Festival and the province’s 60th Foundation Anniversary.
The competition brought together 15 varsity dance teams from colleges and universities across Mindanao, providing young performers with a platform to showcase their creativity, discipline, teamwork, and passion through hip hop while fostering friendship and cultural exchange among educational institutions.
Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges General Santos City’s Jah Rules secured the First Runner Up title and received P70,000, a trophy, and a certificate, while STI College Cotabato City’s 38 Street finished as Second Runner Up and received P40,000, a trophy, and a certificate.
All remaining participating teams received P8,000 each as a consolation prize in recognition of their dedication and outstanding performances.
She also invited the visiting delegations to experience the warmth and hospitality of South Cotabato while enjoying the various activities of this year’s Tnalak Festival.
In the Open Style Battle, Gab claimed the championship and received P5,000, while Hacks finished as finalist and received P2,000.
The Mindanao State University General Santos City Balinsasayaw Dance Collective also earned the Best Video Teaser Special Award.
Jaymark Lontok of NDMU Maris Street said their victory was the result of months of dedication, discipline, and countless hours of training.
“We worked hard and trained tirelessly for this competition. Winning the championship is a reward for all the sacrifices and effort that our team invested. We are truly grateful for the opportunity to showcase our talent alongside the incredible dancers from different parts of Mindanao. Every team brought something unique, and it was an honor to share the stage with them,” Lontok said.
This year’s competition featured participating teams from colleges and universities across the region, namely Mindanao State University General Santos City through the Balinsasayaw Dance Collective, Cotabato Foundation College of Science and Technology with Team Prime, Central Mindanao College represented by Likhang Pawan Dance Company Feral Lions.
On the other hand, another set of participants are GenSantos Foundation College Inc. through Gensantos Dance Company, STI College Cotabato with 38 Street, Sultan Kudarat State University Kalamansig through SKSU Captain, and DMMA College of Southern Philippines with D’MacXtreme.
Meanwhile, Andres Soriano College Bislig is represented by Ascendance, Cronasia Foundation College Inc. through Team Indayog, and Notre Dame of Marbel University with NDMU Maris Street.
Another group of participants are Davao Oriental State University Banaybanay Campus represented by Firstblood Lock, Liceo de Cagayan University through Next Moves Dance Company, Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges General Santos City with Jah Rules, Monkayo College of Arts Sciences and Technology through MonCAST New Wave Ascendant Crew, and Davao del Norte State University represented by The Sharks.
The annual competition continues to strengthen South Cotabato’s reputation as a venue for artistic excellence by providing young people with opportunities to develop their talents, build meaningful connections, and celebrate diversity through dance.
In line with the people centered governance of Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr., the Provincial Government remains committed to supporting programs that empower the youth, promote arts and culture, and create inclusive spaces where talent, creativity, and excellence can thrive.
Through initiatives such as the Mindanao Wide Open Hip Hop Dance Competition, South Cotabato continues to invest in the next generation of artists while strengthening regional unity and cultural appreciation across Mindanao.
