The Municipality of Tarragona in Davao Oriental has successfully concluded its inaugural Ka'aNiYogan Festival, a week-long celebration that also marked the town's 60th Founding Anniversary. Held under the theme “Panaghiusa sa Kultura, Pasalamat sa Abundansya” (Unity in Culture, Gratitude for Abundance), the festival featured sports, cultural presentations, community programs, competitions, and entertainment events from May 29 to June 18, 2026.
Festival Highlights and Competitions
The festivities kicked off on May 29 with the Inter-Barangay Officials Agency Basketball and Volleyball Tournament, “The Road Game,” at the Barangay Cabagayan Gym. Major activities began on June 12, coinciding with the 128th Araw ng Kalayaan Celebration, including a parade, the opening ceremony, ribbon-cutting of the Tiangge sa Ka'aNiYogan Festival, food and entertainment, and the presentation of Bobay ng Ka'aNiYogan 2026 candidates.
Other highlights included a tree-planting activity, Dagan Tarragona Fun Run, I-Do Kasalan ng Bayan mass wedding, Tesda NC II graduation ceremony, and nightly entertainment at the Festival Tiangge.
Yogyogan and Palutaw Competition Results
On June 16, the Yogyogan sa Dalan (street dance competition) and Palutaw sa Dalan (float competition) took center stage. Entry Number 3, representing Barangays Central and Lucatan, won first place in Yogyogan, taking home P500,000 and a plaque. Their performance was inspired by the Filipino folklore “Gimino,” about a lost person finding their way home by turning clothes inside out. They also received the Best in Choreography special award.
Second place in Yogyogan went to Entry Number 3 of Barangays Cabagayan and Tomoaong, earning P300,000 and a plaque, along with special awards for Best in Musicality and Best in Artistic Design. Third place was awarded to Entry Number 1 of Barangays Dadong and Jovellar, who received P200,000 and a plaque.
In the Palutaw sa Dalan float competition, Entry Number 4 of Barangays Limot and Ompao was declared grand champion, winning P200,000. Second place went to Entry Number 1 of Barangays Dadong and Jovellar (P125,000), while Entry Number 3 of Barangays Cabagayan and Tomoaong placed third.
Mayor's Announcement and Gratitude
Tarragona Mayor Art Benjie “Kaka” Bulaong expressed his gratitude to all participants, jokingly declaring himself the real champion. “Ang tinuod nga champion karon kay ako tungod sa inyong suporta!” (The real champion now is me because of your support!) he said, noting that despite the festival's first edition, the community eagerly participated.
In a surprise move, Mayor Bulaong increased the initial cash prizes: third place rose from P100,000 to P200,000, second place from P200,000 to P300,000, and the champion from P300,000 to P500,000. The announcement drew elation from participants and attendees.
Closing Ceremonies and Mayor's Address
The festival also featured KantaNiYogan: The Battle of Singing Champions on June 16, and the Bobay ng Ka'aNiYogan 2026 coronation night on June 17 at Plaza de Tarragona. The closing day on June 18 included a traditional Diana, Misa Pasasalamat, the 60th Founding Anniversary Ceremony, and the State of the Mayor’s Address.
In his speech, Mayor Bulaong reiterated his gratitude and pride, stating, “Kini nga kalihokan dili lamang usa ka selebrasyon sa atong kasaysayan isip usa ka lungsod, apan usa usab ka pagpamatuod sa kalig-on, panaghiusa, ug gugma sa katawhan sa Tarragona alang sa atong mahal nga lungsod.” (This activity is not only a celebration of our history as a municipality, but also a testament to the strength, unity, and love of the people of Tarragona for our beloved town.)
He likened the resilience of Tarragonans to a strong coconut tree, noting that despite challenges over six decades, they have remained steadfast. “Ang kalampusan sa atong selebrasyon usa ka tin-aw nga ebidensya nga kung ang katawhan nagkahiusa alang sa usa ka tumong, walay imposible nga maabot,” Bulaong said, emphasizing that every program and competition was a testament to the talent, dedication, and cooperation of every Tarragonan.
