The vibrant streets of Cebu City witnessed a spectacular display of faith and culture as Tagbilaran City, Bohol and Toledo City, Cebu were crowned the top winners of the Sinulog Grand Parade and Ritual Showdown on Sunday, January 18, 2026. The grand event, held at the Cebu City Sports Center, drew thousands of spectators to celebrate the devotion to the Señor Santo Niño.
Champions of Devotion and Artistry
In a powerful showcase of tradition, Tagbilaran City claimed the championship in the Sinulog-Based category of the Ritual Showdown. The contingent impressed the judges with its faithful interpretation, powerful choreography, and vibrant costumes that told the story of their devotion.
Meanwhile, Toledo City captured the top honor in the Free Interpretation category, showcasing creative artistry and a dynamic performance that reimagined the cultural narrative. The same city also dominated the streets, winning first place in the separate Street Dancing competition with an energetic and synchronized performance along the parade route.
Complete List of Winners and Prizes
The Sinulog 2026 competition featured fierce rivalry among 40 contingents, including guest performers and floats. The winners received substantial cash prizes, with champions in the main Ritual Showdown categories each taking home P3 million.
Ritual Showdown (Free Interpretation)
The top five winners in this category were:
- Toledo City - Champion (P3 million)
- Province of Cotabato - 2nd place (P2 million)
- Hudyaka sa Bais - 3rd place (P1,500,000)
- Lambo Mabolo - 4th place (P1 million)
- Tribu Carmenanon - 5th place (P750,000)
Ritual Showdown (Sinulog-Based)
The traditional category winners included:
- Tagbilaran City - Champion (P3 million)
- Dumanjug - 2nd place (P2 million)
- Carcar City - 3rd place (P1,500,000)
- Banay Labangon - 4th place (P1 million)
- Mandaue City - 5th place (P750,000)
Street Dancing Competition
For their captivating parade performances, the winners were:
- Toledo City - 1st place (P1 million)
- Carcar City - 2nd place (P700,000)
- Kalivungan Festival, Province of Cotabato - 3rd place (P500,000)
- Lumad Basakanon - 4th place (P300,000)
- Hudyaka sa Bais - 5th place (P200,000)
A Celebration of Faith and Culture
Additional awards were given for Best in Costume and Best in Musicality. Banay Labangon won Best in Costume for Sinulog-Based, while Toledo City also secured the Best in Costume for Free Interpretation, each receiving P100,000. In musicality, Tagbilaran City and Toledo City again led their respective categories.
The Sinulog Grand Parade 2026 once again solidified its status as the Philippines' grandest festival, masterfully blending deep religious devotion with breathtaking cultural artistry. The event not only honors the Santo Niño but also serves as a vital platform for communities across the nation to showcase their unique heritage and artistic excellence on a celebrated stage.
