ILIGAN CITY — Young performers took center stage at Kasadya Street Dancing 2026, showcasing the Maranao, Higaonon, and Bisaya or Settler cultures during the Diyandi Festival.
Six contingents from Iligan and nearby areas joined the competition, using dance, music, costumes, and storytelling to highlight the traditions of their communities.
Barangay Tomas Cabili won the grand championship and ₱1 million, while also taking several special awards, including Best in Maranao, Best in Higaonon, Best in Diyandi, Best in Musicality, Best in Storyline, and Best in Street Dancing.
Barangay Suarez placed first runner-up with ₱700,000, while Barangay Santa Filomena finished second runner-up with ₱500,000.For the young participants, the event was more than a competition.
They said it helped them appreciate their culture while learning patience, discipline, teamwork, and confidence.Eighteen-year-old Jamila Pitomandang said she joined to share her Maranao heritage, while other first-time performers described the experience as challenging but rewarding.Kasadya Street Dancing has been part of Iligan’s festival tradition since 1991, continuing to give young people a platform to celebrate culture through performance.
