Cotabato's 110-year milestone was marked with great enthusiasm at the Kalivungan Festival, a lively showcase of the province’s unity and progress. Governor Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza’s address emphasized the importance of harmony among Cotabato’s diverse communities—indigenous peoples, Moro groups, and Christians. She highlighted how the province’s fertile lands offer abundant agricultural opportunities and contribute to reducing conflicts.
Mendoza’s message underscored the values of mutual respect and cooperation, embodying the province’s vision of a future rooted in peaceful coexistence and collective goals.
Honoring the Past: A Tribute to Leaders and Ancestors
In her speech, Governor Mendoza also called on Cotabateños to reflect on their rich history and the contributions of past leaders, elders, and ancestors. She urged the community to honor these figures, recognizing their pivotal roles in shaping the province’s development.
The Kalivungan Festival’s street dance competition, which featured Cotabato’s vibrant cultural heritage, was a heartfelt tribute to this legacy. Mendoza encouraged residents to celebrate their roots and uphold the traditions that define Cotabato’s identity. The festival not only commemorates the past but also motivates the community to cherish and perpetuate their cultural heritage.
Cultural Showcase and Achievement: Festival Highlights
The festival concluded with a thrilling street dancing competition that spotlighted the artistic talents and cultural wealth of Cotabato’s municipalities.
M’lang emerged as the grand champion, securing PHP1 million and an additional PHP100,000 for Best in Musicality. Midsayap, the runner-up, earned accolades for Best in Street Dancing and Best in Costume. These awards celebrate the participants’ creativity and reinforce the festival’s role in promoting and preserving Cotabato’s diverse cultural traditions.
The Kalivungan Festival not only offers a lively platform for cultural expression but also underscores the province’s dedication to celebrating its heritage and achievements over the past 110 years.
