MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL — The vibrant heart of Mindanao beats louder today as the province officially opens the Perangat Festival 2025: “Sayaw sa Pag-Asenso”, a grand celebration of culture, gratitude, and progress.
The festivities began with the halad-pasalamat of the Subanen tribal leaders — a sacred offering symbolizing thanksgiving and the deep spiritual roots of the province. This ritual marks the official opening of the weeklong cultural extravaganza, uniting communities under the shared rhythm of heritage and hope.
At the Misamis Occidental Provincial Athletic Complex (MOPAC), excitement fills the air as nine powerhouse contingents representing Mindanao’s most iconic festivals gather for the Ultimate Battle of Famous Festivals, starting at 7 a.m.
This year’s competing contingents include:
- Perangat Festival of Ozamiz City – OCSAT Cultural Performers
- Bonok-Bonok Maradjaw Karadjaw Festival of Surigao City – Carascians Performing Arts Guild
- Hermosa Festival of Zamboanga City – Talon-Talon National High School
- P’gsalabuk Festival of Dipolog City – Baile Filipina Dance Guild Inc.
- Sibug-Sibug Festival of Titay, Zamboanga Sibugay – Dasig Titay & Emerald Touch Dance Company
- Oroquieta City Cultural Troupe
- Halad Festival of Tangub City Dance Company
- Misamis Occidental Merged Contingent 1 – Aloran, Lopez Jaena, Plaridel, Calamba, Sapang Dalaga, Baliangao, and Concepcion
- Misamis Occidental Merged Contingent 2 – Panaon, Jimenez, Sinacaban, Tudela, Clarin, Bonifacio, and Don Victoriano
The Perangat Festival Dance Showdown Grand Champion will take home a ₱2 million cash prize and a trophy, with the next four runners-up receiving ₱1.8 million, ₱1.5 million, ₱1.2 million, and ₱1 million respectively. Non-winning contingents will also be rewarded ₱500,000 each for their participation.
In the Street Dancing Competition, the champion will earn ₱750,000 plus a trophy, followed by ₱500,000, ₱300,000, ₱200,000, and ₱100,000 for the runners-up. Additional awards include Best in Costume and Best in Musicality (₱100,000 each), along with special prizes for the Cleanest Billeting Quarters, worth up to ₱50,000.
More than a contest of dance and color, the Perangat Festival stands as a testament to the province’s unity and shared vision for progress. With dazzling choreography, intricate costumes, and the spirit of Mindanaoan pride, it reflects how culture continues to fuel tourism, strengthen community ties, and open economic opportunities.
As Misamis Occidental dances to the beat of “Sayaw sa Pag-Asenso,” the festival reminds everyone that true progress is built upon gratitude, heritage, and the collective rhythm of its people.