Nueva Valencia’s Hubon Sadsaran soared back to victory at the 2025 Manggahan Festival Cultural Dance Competition, clinching their first championship title since 2016 and dashing Sibunag’s Hubon Balsahan’s hopes of a grand slam win. The electrifying showdown, held on May 25, 2025, drew thousands to witness Guimaras’ finest cultural performers celebrate the island’s heritage through dance, music, and storytelling.

🏆 Champion: Hubon Sadsaran (Nueva Valencia)

• Prize: ₱1.5 million
• Special Awards:
  ✅ Best in Story Concept
  ✅ Best in Production Design
  ✅ Best in Music
  Their performance, rooted in Nueva Valencia’s storytelling traditions and cultural identity, wove a narrative of resilience and pride, leaving judges and audiences spellbound.

🥈 First Runner-Up: Hubon Balsahan (Sibunag)

• Prize: ₱1 million
• Special Awards:
  ✅ Best in Choreography
  ✅ Best in Performance
  The 2024 champions delivered a powerhouse routine marked by dynamic movements and precision but fell short of their grand slam ambition.

🥉 Second Runner-Up: Hubon San Lorenzohanon from the Municipality of San Lorenzo

• Prize: ₱500,000
  Praised for their heartfelt execution and cohesive artistry, their performance echoed themes of community and unity.

🌟 Consolation Prizes

• Hubon Bulantihan of Jordan and Hubon Palayag of Buenavista each received ₱250,000 for their commendable cultural contributions, highlighting Guimaras’ diverse creative talent.

🎉 Festival Spotlight

The Cultural Competition, a cornerstone of the Manggahan Festival, celebrates Guimaras’ mango industry and artistic spirit. This year’s event underscored the province’s ability to blend tradition with innovation, as performers transformed local folklore and agricultural life into theatrical masterpieces.

🔄 A Legacy of Resilience

Hubon Sadsaran’s win marks a historic comeback after a nine-year drought, reigniting pride in Nueva Valencia. Meanwhile, Hubon Balsahan’s consistent podium finishes cement Sibunag’s reputation for excellence.

As the festival continues, Guimarasnons and visitors alike revel in mango-themed fairs, street dances, and eco-adventures, proving that the island’s cultural and natural treasures remain #MangoesandMore.

Manggahan2025 #LoveGuimaras #KabataanFIRST #ProvinceofGuimaras