The sound of Mindanaoan artists resonated across Matina Town Square Taboan as they performed their original pieces during the Tunog Kadayawan 2026 on August 8, 2026.
Willenito P. Tormis Jr., Head of the City Tourism Operations Office (CTOO), in his opening message said that Tunog Kadayawan is a platform to celebrate Kadayawan through music, giving artists and composers the avenue to showcase their original musical pieces.
“We want gyud na maghatag og avenue for all of our singers, composers ug artists kay for us gyud, the best way to celebrate Kadayawan is through music. Naa ta diria karon to not just promote the original music of these individuals but to also support them kay kining ginabuhat nato for Kadayawan is not just for the tribes, not just for our cultural communities or the flora and fauna but also for the people nga kita mismo diria sa Mindanao, icelebrate nato ang atoang sariling musika (We want to provide an avenue for all of our singers, composers, and artists because for us, the best way to celebrate Kadayawan is through music. We are here now not just to promote the original music of these individuals but also to support them because what we are doing for Kadayawan is not just for the tribes, not just for our cultural communities or the flora and fauna but also for the people like us here in Mindanao, to celebrate our own music),” he said.
Leading the competition was Kalinaw World Music from Maco, Davao de Oro, whose original entry “Tingog Mindanao” earned them the Grand Winner title and the Php 150,000 cash prize.
General Santos City’s Tunog Salinlahi secured second place with “Pamanang Hangad,” taking home Php 70,000, while Tagum City’s World Music Project placed third with “Kahiusahan,” receiving Php 30,000. Seven finalists were also awarded a consolation prize of Php 10,000 each.
In a Facebook post last August 9, 2026, Kalinaw World Music also expressed gratitude to the City Government of Davao, saying that the competition created a platform that celebrates the talents of local artists and musicians while giving them the opportunity to share their stories and music with a wider audience.
“Kalinaw World Music is deeply grateful and honored to be named the Grand Winner of Tunog Kadayawan 2026! This victory is not ours alone. It is a victory shared with everyone who believed in us, supported us, prayed for us, and stood with us throughout this incredible journey,” Kalinaw World Music, said. CIO
Written by: N. Malasado
Edited by: A. Nawal
Photo by: J. Faelnar