The municipality of Buenavista in Guimaras was declared champion during the cultural competition of the 2026 Manggahan Festival on Sunday evening.
Represented by Hubon Palayag, the presentation focused on the uniqueness of Buenavista, its traditional abaca weaving industry, galleon or miniature boat-making industry, and how the town showcased resiliency following a sea tragedy in 2019.
Palayag also won the best in story concept, choreography and performance awards.
Meanwhile, Hubon Bulantihan from the municipality of Jordan grabbed second place and best in production design award, while Hubon Balsahan from the municipality of Sibunag placed third.
Palayag brought home PHP1.5 million in cash prize, PHP1 million for Bulantihan and PHP500,000 for Balsahan.
The non-winning groups, Hubon Sadsaran of the municipality of Nueva Valencia, and Hubon Panugday of the town of San Lorenzo, received PHP250,000 each in consolation prizes.
Gov. Ma. Lucille Nava, in her message, said the cultural competition is the “sweetest culmination” of the 10-day Manggahan Festival.
She said the performances reflect the growth and passion of the island; a creative expression and uniqueness of every municipality; and represents what’s more in Guimaras, other than the renowned “sweetest” mangoes.
“Our greatest achievement for this celebration is that we have proudly celebrated our identity as a province. We have embodied it in the whole Manggahan Festival. And we have shown the world who we really are,” Nava said.
Meanhile, Guimaras Lone District Rep. JC Rahman Nava committed PHP20 million worth of projects for the five participating municipalities next year. (PNA)