THE streets of Tagbilaran came alive with vibrant colors, rhythmic beats, and graceful movements as the city emerged victorious in the highly anticipated 2023 Sandugo Street Dancing and Ritual Showdown Competition held on July 30, 2023.
Tribu Tagbilaranon was declared the grand winner besting nine other contingents from the different municipalities of the province of Bohol. For its victory, Tribu Tagbilaran received P500,000.00 and a trophy.
The Tagbilaran City contingent is also the recipient of all three special awards – Best in Street Dancing, Best in Costume and Best in Musicality.
Wearing impressive costumes and dancing to the festive beat of Sandugo 2023, the performers showcased the rich culture and history of the city by remembering the fisherfolks of Tagubilaan, the old name of Tagbilaran City, and showcasing the hospitality and generosity of its people.
City Mayor Jane Yap, who joined the Sandugo parade and witnessed the performance first hand, expressed her immense pride and joy over the city’s triumph.
“Congratulations to our talented performers who showcased the beauty and richness of Tagbilaran’s cultural heritage through their amazing street dance. This is truly a testament to the unity and spirit of our city. We humbly dedicate this victory to our beloved city’s patron saint, Sr. San Jose,” Mayor Yap said.
Mayor Yap expressed heartfelt gratitude to all those who generously supported and assisted Tribu Tagbilaran. She specifically thanked the City Government of Tagbilaran, Vice Mayor Adam Relson Jala, and the 15th Sangguniang Panlungsod for their unwavering support.
The City Mayor also extended her appreciation to Chief of Staff John Geesnell Yap II, Department Heads, Barangay Tiptip led by Punong Barangay Jeminador Lantape, the dedicated members of Tribu Tagbilaranon Team, Choreographer Joseph Alexis Cadeliña, and the talented Tagbilaran City Glam Team.
Their collective efforts and cooperation made this achievement possible and contributed to the success of Tribu Tagbilaran.
The Sandugo Street Dancing and Ritual Showdown is the highlight of the annual Sandugo Festival organized by the Provincial Government of Bohol.
The Sandugo Festival is a commemoration of the blood compact between Bohol Chieftain, Datu Sikatuna and Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi which is a pivotal event in Philippine history and also known as the first international treaty of friendship.
