By Helen Castaño and Jhelmar Jala | 12:40 AM April 27, 2026
TAGBILARAN CITY — Barangay Poblacion 3’s Tribu Maabi-abihon clinched top honors after being proclaimed grand champion of the Saulog Tagbilaran 2026 Ritual Showdown held on Sunday, April 26.
Competing under the theme “One Family, One City,” the winning contingent took home a P300,000 cash prize, a trophy, a P3-million project grant, and an additional P8 million from Rep. John Geesnell “Baba” Yap. The group also secured the Best in Choreography award, earning an extra P30,000.
Meanwhile, Tribu Tiptipanon of Barangay Tiptip dominated the street dancing competition, emerging as champion and receiving P300,000 and a trophy.
A total of 15 barangays joined this year’s competitions, showcasing vibrant performances that highlighted Tagbilaran City’s rich culture and artistic talent.
Ritual Showdown winners:
Grand Champion: Tribu Maabi-abihon (Brgy. Poblacion 3)
2nd Place: Tribu D’Mansasamazing (Brgy. Mansasa)
3rd Place: Tribu Ubujanon (Brgy. Ubujan)
4th Place: Pundok sa Nagkahiusang Cogonanon (Brgy. Cogon)
5th Place: Tribu Tiptipanon (Brgy. Tiptip)
Street Dancing winners:
Champion: Tribu Tiptipanon (Brgy. Tiptip)
2nd Place: Tribu D’Mansasamazing (Brgy. Mansasa)
3rd Place: Tribu Dampasanong Hiyas (Brgy. Dampas)
4th Place: Pundok sa Nagkahiusang Cogonanon (Brgy. Cogon)
5th Place: Tribu Ubujanon (Brgy. Ubujan)
Tribu D’Mansasamazing of Barangay Mansasa also bagged the Best in Music award, winning P100,000.
Identity
Mayor Jane Yap said the city pushed through with the festival’s major events despite the postponement of some activities due to the ongoing energy crisis, citing its cultural and economic importance.
“Saulog Tagbilaran is a celebration of our faith, culture and identity as Tagbilaranons,” Yap said
.
“We chose to continue this major highlight because it supports our local businesses and gives our people a reason to come together in hope and solidarity.”
Yap added that the event generated opportunities for vendors, transport operators, and small enterprises.
“This celebration is not only about festivities. It is also about community, livelihood and resilience,” she said.
Saulog Tagbilaran remains one of the city’s biggest annual festivals, drawing large crowds for its blend of religious devotion, cultural showcases, and competitions. For many residents, the street dancing and ritual showdown serve as the centerpiece of the celebration, reflecting both artistry and local pride.
The city government also expressed gratitude to its partners, sponsors, and media organizations for supporting the successful staging of Saulog Tagbilaran 2026.
Also present during the event were Gov. Aris Aumentado, Rep. Baba Yap, Vice Gov. Nick Besas, Vice Mayor Adam Jala and city councilors.
