Tultugan: From Kasadyahan kings to Dinagyang hopefuls

By Mariela Angella Oladive

Fresh from securing a third straight championship at the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan, the Tultugan Festival of Maasin is considering a bid to join the Dinagyang Festival Tribes Competition in 2027.

Mayor Amboy Ansing, who also serves as the festival’s tribe manager, made the statement following the announcement of the Kasadyahan winners on the evening of Jan. 25.

If the plan pushes through, the Tultugan Festival is expected to sit out the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan next year.

The Tultugan Festival is a cultural performance rooted in Maasin’s long-standing tradition of bamboo percussion instruments, blending rhythm, movement, and indigenous artistry.

Its powerful use of bamboo sounds and synchronized choreography has consistently set it apart in provincial and national competitions.

This year’s victory earned the municipality the top prize of PHP 1.2 million and a trophy.

The festival also dominated the special award categories, winning Best in Music, Best in Costume, Best in Production Design, Best in Musical Director, Best in Circular Creativity Award, and Best in Street Dancing.

As part of the celebration, the Maasin local government declared Jan. 26 a no-class day at all levels, allowing performers and residents time to rest after the festival season.

Ansing thanked the dancers, musicians, choreographers, and supporters for their trust and commitment, noting that strong community backing played a key role in the group’s sustained success.

He added that a possible return to the Aliwan Fiesta this year will depend on the decision of the provincial government.

The Tultugan Festival previously represented Iloilo at Aliwan Fiesta 2024 in Manila, placing second in both the Street Dance and Tugtog ng Aliwan competitions and earning the Best Musical Accompaniment Award.

The 2025 edition of the Aliwan Fiesta was canceled due to scheduling conflicts with the midterm elections.