T’nalak Festival parade returns with new float category, higher stakes

South Cotabato, Philippines – Final preparations are underway for the T’nalak Festival 2025 Civic-Military Parade and Float Competition, which will take place on July 11 at 7:00 AM, following the same route as last year.

According to Sam Cyrus G. Bayog from the Committee on Civic Military Parade and Float Competition, a total of 20 contingents have already confirmed their participation in the grand parade, with more groups expected to join in the coming days. In the float competition, seven floats have been completed so far, with a total of 10 to 15 entries anticipated.

“Sa atin float competition 7 entries ara gihapon tong aton mga old defending nga mga entries kag may yara man kita sang mga new nga nag palab ot sang ila nga intention to join our float competition. As for our most festive contingents’ naman, we are expecting 10–15 entries nga mag join,”Bayog stated.

A major addition this year is the new category- Most Festive Float. This special award aims to highlight entries that go beyond aesthetics, celebrating creativity, cultural identity, and crowd appeal. While all floats must reflect the official T’nalak Festival 2025 theme, participants are encouraged to incorporate distinct local elements into their designs.

To boost participation and elevate the competition, organizers have increased cash prizes for float entries:

Champion: ₱140,000

1st Runner-up: ₱120,000

2nd Runner-up: ₱100,000

Consolation Prizes: ₱60,000 each

For the Most Festive float category:

Champion: ₱25,000

1st Place: ₱20,000

2nd Place: ₱15,000

To address issues from last year—when some floats exited early, limiting public viewing—a revised parade route has been implemented to ensure all entries are properly showcased and photographed.

Jo-Ann Palacio, also from the said committee, confirmed that coordination with participants is running smoothly, following the successful system used in 2024. Contingents are reminded to arrive early and strictly follow event guidelines.

With increased prizes, improved logistics, and high community engagement, the 2025 T’nalak Parade and Float Competition is shaping up to be one of the most exciting festival highlights yet.

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