Iloilo City — The Tultugan Festival of Maasin clinched the championship title at the 2026 Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan competition, one of the cultural highlights of this year’s Dinagyang Festival. Kasadyahan is an annual showcase that brings together cultural contingents from across Western Visayas, celebrating the region’s diverse heritage through music, dance, and storytelling.
Held on January 24, Maasin’s Tultugan troupe delivered a powerful and polished performance, successfully defending its crown for the third consecutive year. The bamboo percussion-based ensemble captivated the audience with its rhythmic tultugan drumming, synchronized movements, and intricate choreography that echoed the community’s strong cultural identity.
The Kahilwayan Festival of Santa Barbara earned First Runner-up honors, impressing judges with its liberation-themed dance-drama that paid tribute to the town’s historical struggle and freedom. Meanwhile, the Kasag Festival of Banate secured Second Runner-up, highlighting the town’s coastal roots and crab-fishing traditions through vibrant visuals and storytelling.
Aside from the major awards, several special recognitions were given to outstanding performances. Santa Barbara’s Kahilwayan Festival dominated the performance categories, winning the People’s Choice Award, Best in Performance, Best in Choreography, Best Choreographer, and the Ingenuity Award.
On the technical side, the Tultugan Festival of Maasin swept key distinctions, including Best in Music, Best in Costume, Best in Production Design, Best in Musical Director, Circular Creativity Award, and Best in Street Dancing.
This year’s Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan once again highlighted the rich tapestry of Iloilo’s culture, showcasing the creativity, discipline, and pride of its participating communities. As a celebration of local heritage, the festival continues to unite Ilonggos through performances that honor tradition while embracing artistic excellence.
Ilonggo Traveler 
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