Cotabato came alive with vibrant music, dance, and tradition as it launched the Kalivungan Festival 2025 in celebration of its 111th founding anniversary on Tuesday, August 26. The weeklong festivities, running until September 1, bring together Cotabateños to honor their history, celebrate their culture, and showcase the province’s growing potential.
A Celebration of Heritage and Unity
Governor Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza opened the festivities, reminding Cotabateños that the Kalivungan Festival is more than just a cultural showcase, it is a reflection of the province’s journey and resilience.
“This celebration is more than just festivities. It is about our history, our culture, and our unity as one people,” she said. With the theme “Cotabato Province @ 111: Malasakit at Serbisyong Totoo. Diwang Kalivungan, Diwang Cotabato,” Mendoza highlighted the progress of Cotabato, which she described as among the most recognized local government units in the country today.
The Kalivungan Festival, rooted in tradition, celebrates origins, harvest, and the contributions of indigenous peoples, while also marking the province’s founding.
Music, Trade, and Local Pride
Festivities began with the lively drum and lyre competition, where the municipality of Carmen took first place, followed by Aleosan and Magpet. Crowds cheered as performers filled the provincial capitol grounds with rhythm and energy.
Governor Mendoza also led the opening of the “Yaman ng Cotabato: Travel and Trade Expo,” an exhibition that highlights Cotabato’s rich agricultural products, handicrafts, and tourist destinations. “We unveil the strides we’ve achieved in agriculture and tourism—the twin drivers of economic development,” she said.
Looking Forward to the Grand Culmination
The weeklong celebration is filled with cultural performances, trade fairs, and showcases of Cotabateño talent. The street dancing competition, long regarded as the festival’s highlight, will serve as the grand culmination, promising a colorful display of creativity and community pride.
