South Cotabato, Philippines — The municipalities of Polomolok and Norala, alongside Koronadal City, emerged victorious as they were crowned grand champions in their respective categories during the highly anticipated 2026 T’nalak Festival Street Dancing and Grand Showdown today, July 18, 2026.
Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Sonia Bautista, Street Dancing Committee Chairperson, said the three local government units dominated the streets and the grand stage with their high-energy choreography, synchronized movements, and spectacular cultural narratives, besting rival contingents from across the province.
“The highly contested cultural competition served as the grand culmination of South Cotabato’s milestone 60th Foundation Anniversary and 27th T’nalak Festival, drawing thousands of spectators, tourists, and digital viewers who witnessed the vibrant display of tribal pride and cultural heritage,” Bautista said.
After an exciting display of talent and cultural pride, Landan National High School, the representative of the municipality of Polomolok, emerged as the Champion in the Madal Be’Lan category. Saravia National High School secured the 1st Runner-up award, while Laconon Integrated School finished as 2nd Runner-up. Sta. Cruz Mission School Inc. received the Encouragement Prize for its commendable performance.
In the Kasadyahan sa Kapatagan category, Norala National High School claimed the Championship, impressing both judges and spectators with its synchronized choreography and vibrant presentation. T’boli National High School received the Encouragement Prize.
Meanwhile, Bacongco National High School dominated the Kadsagayan A Lalan category, earning the coveted Championship title. Panay National High School was named 1st Runner-up, while Bukay Pait National High School took home the 2nd Runner-up award.
The committee gave out special awards to recognize the contingents that excelled during the street parade and musical presentation, Bautista said.
Landan National High School was awarded Best in Street Parade and Best in Music for the Madal Be’Lan category. Norala National High School received both special awards in the Kasadyahan sa Kapatagan category, while Bacongco National High School likewise earned Best in Street Parade and Best in Music honors for Kadsagayan A Lalan.
The electric atmosphere of the grand showdown extended far beyond the venue as thousands of netizens flooded the official livestream, generating massive digital engagement with 214,844 views, 81,110 viewers, and a staggering 58,170 total engagements.
The virtual audience filled the digital space with 5,000 comments, 1,561 shares, and 40,367 clicks, creating a vibrant online community of support.
Viewers, on the other hand, passionately cheered for their favorite contingents, with Catelyn Besira commenting, “Gowwwww norala national high school,” and Raezi exclaiming, “Baskog bacongco.”
The broadcast even reached listeners in unexpected places, drawing touching remarks like that of Rapby Y. Pigao, who shared they were “Watching from North Cotabato District Jail MD,” proving that the pride of the milestone T’nalak Festival truly knows no boundaries.
The Street Dancing and Grand Showdown once again highlighted the creativity, discipline, and dedication of South Cotabato’s young performers, teachers, choreographers, and communities. Beyond the competition, the event served as a vibrant celebration of the province’s diverse cultural identity, showcasing the traditions of its indigenous peoples while fostering unity and pride among South Cotabateños.
The annual spectacle remains one of the most anticipated events of the T’nalak Festival, bringing together thousands of spectators in a colorful display of heritage, artistry, and community spirit under this year’s theme, “Our Culture, Our Strength, Our Pride.”
