Davao City’s vibrant culture and heritage took center stage as the 11 candidates of Hiyas sa Kadayawan 2026 showcased the richness of their respective communities through expressive and meaningful performances during the Cultural Presentation on August 9 at the SM City Davao Annex Event Center.
Sheirelle Uy-Anino, Deputy Mayor of Bagobo Tagabawa, said in her opening message that the cultural presentation was more than a showcase of talent—it served as a reminder that culture is not merely inherited, but something to be nurtured, celebrated, and passed on.
“As we witness the grace, talent, vibrant color and tradition showcase in the Hiyas sa Kadayawan Cultural Presentation, may we be reminded that our culture is not simply something we inherit. It is something we nurture, celebrate and pass on. Let every dance, every melody, every color and every story carry a piece of who we are,” she said.
During the showcase, Christine Faith Gawilan of the Matigsalug, Jamaica Prado of the Kagan, and Marisol Barani of the Sama emerged as the Top 3 finalists for Best in Cultural Presentation.
Barani, representing the Sama community, emphasized that preserving traditions goes hand in hand with supporting community livelihoods. She noted that for the Sama, earning is not about accumulating wealth but sustaining daily life and empowering their community.
“Importante ma showcase ni kay para ma preserve pod ang amoang kultura and also para mapasa sa atoang next generation. Then, dili lang siya sa economic condition sa Sama culture but it’s also sa mga tao nga unta tagaan nato sila og support sa business kasi we earn not to get rich but to survive lang sa amoang daily life (It’s important to showcase this to preserve our culture and also to pass it on to the next generation. Then, it’s not just about the economic condition of the Sama culture but also about the people whom we should support in business because we earn not to get rich but just to survive in our daily life),” she said.
The winner of Hiyas sa Kadayawan will receive Php 200,000, while the Hiyas sa Panaghiusa and Hiyas sa Kalambuan will take home Php 150,000 and Php 100,000, respectively.
In recognition of the dedication of all candidates, the eight non-finalists, who will be recognized as Hiyas sa Kaliwatan, will each receive Php 50,000. Special awards, including Best in Cultural Presentation and Best in Project Proposal Video, will also come with a Php 25,000 cash prize.
All 11 candidates will advance to the Grand Coronation Night on August 13, 2026, at the University of Southeastern Philippines Gymnasium and Cultural Center. CIO
Written by: N. Malasado
Edited by: A. Nawal
Photo by: J. Faelnar