DAVAO CITY (July 12) — The province of South Cotabato will showcase today July 12, their rich indigenous culture and traditions, as it formally unveils the
famous 2018 T’nalak Festival, in time for their 52nd foundation anniversary.
The T’nalak Festival, considered as as one of the biggest annual celebrations in Region 12 or Soccsksargen, it has been celebrated for the last 19 years.
The provincial government led by South Cotabato Governor Daisy Avance-Fuentes on Tuesday announced that the provincial government and their partner- stakeholders have prepared for this day.
The weeklong festival will culminate on July 18, which will include the Tri-People Grand Parade; Street Dancing Grand Showdown; T’nalak luncheon; T’nalak rave party and concert; and, a grand fireworks display.
Senior Supt. Nestor Salcedo, South Cotabato police director, said Wednesday they have placed all their units under heightened alert to ensure the “safe, smooth and orderly” conduct of the festivities.
The T’nalak Festival does not only highlight the indigenous products of the proovince, but also their rich culture long been preservced by the tribe.
The festival is expected to draw thousands of toutrists broth both local and foreign.
Fuentes said this year’s festivity is a grandiose feast themed “Sharing our best with the world.”
The provincial government added innovation and some improvement to make the celebration more festive and memorable.
The events, which will run until July 18, will be centered in Koronadal City, the province’s capital and component city.
The festival will start anew with an interfaith thanksgiving celebration on Thursday afternoon at the South Cotabato Gymnasium and Cultural Center.
The opening day activities include the unveiling of the 2018 Regional Trade Expo, two-day Regional Cacao Congress, T’nalak strip, T’nalak food garden, agri fair, bahay kubo showcase, and the plants and product display.
A nightly show and concert featuring will feature more than 80 celebrity performers and artists.
Mindanao-wide Track and Field Competition; National Chess Open Competition; 1st National T’nalak Hip-Hop Competition; T’nalak Motocross; Pop Solo Contest; Mutya ng South Cotabato, Cheer Dance Competition; LGBTQ Night; and, the Governor’s T’nalak Charity Ball.
Through the festivity, Fuentes is hoping to project the province as a peaceful place and a good tourism destination.
Fuentes stressed “We need to show to the world that there are many things that are unique and exciting happening in the province. That there is a place somewhere in Mindanao wherein they can experience diverse and rich culture and traditions, and the hospitality of our resilient and dynamic people.” Jiann A. Padillo with reports from PNA
