ILOILO CITY — The rhythmic beats of bamboo percussions resonated across Iloilo once again as Maasin's Tultugan Festival clinched its second consecutive championship in the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan competition of the Dinagyang Festival.
The festival earned the grand prize of P1.2 million and captured four special awards such as Best in Music, Best in Production Design, Best in Choreography and Best in Performance.
Maasin's performance highlighted the iconic tultugan, a native bamboo percussion instrument used for communication and music.
The town of Maasin, widely regarded as the bamboo capital of Iloilo, showcased its deep-rooted cultural connection to bamboo craftsmanship and artistry.
Meanwhile, the Hirinugyaw-Suguidanonay Festival of Calinog placed runner-up anew and bagged the cash prize of P700,000.
Their performance celebrated the rich cultural heritage of the Panay Bukidnon community and their epic traditions. It also honored Federico 'Tay Pedring' Caballero, a Filipino epic chanter and a 'National Living Treasure.'
Leon's Kaing Festival, which promotes the significance of the kaing, a traditional basket made of bamboo strips, placed third overall and received a P500,000 purse.
The Iloilo provincial government announced that the six other tribes who competed will receive a consolation prize of P200,000 each.