A Brgy. Paraiso-led contingent emerged as the biggest winner in this year’s Sinigay sa Sagay “Saot para sa Dunang Manggad” after sweeping the grand champion title and most of the major awards during the competition held Friday, March 20.
The “Himotadan ang Divinang Paraiso” tribe, composed of barangays Paraiso, Tadlong, Campo Himogaan, Baviera, and Colonia Divina, was declared grand champion after delivering a performance centered on pawikan or sea turtle conservation, a press release from Sagay City said..
The same contingent dominated the competition by winning Best Streetdancing Costume, Best Saot sa Dunang Manggad Choreography, Best in Endurance, Best Choreographer, Best Designer, Best Visual Artist, Best in Props, and Best in Headdress.
Tribu Bumavira Uno placed first runner-up, while Famopuan Dos secured second runner-up in the five-contingent competition.
“Base-ao del Jaena”, another participating contingent, received the Best in Upcycled Accessories award.
The competition was staged for the first time in the morning, with the arena performance held at the Sagay City Public Plaza, while the street dancing started from Sagay National High School and passed through Ratsada sa Kalsada before culminating in front of James Innovation.
Mayor Leo Rafael “Bebo” Cueva said the performances reflected more than artistic expression but a collective commitment to environmental protection.
“It is a heartfelt tribute to the enduring bond between the Sagaynon heart and the blue waters that sustain us,” Cueva said.
He added that each performance represents a step forward in strengthening the city’s advocacy for marine conservation.
“For nearly 60 years, our marine conservation programs have been our legacy,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ashlee Garcia Sibulan of “Famopuan Dos” was crowned Sinigay sa Sagay Hara 2026, while Clyd Dwyn Deslate of “Bumavira Uno” was named Hari 2026.
Sibulan also won Best Hara Costume, while Mcklein Hanz Villoso of Famopuan Dos was awarded Best Hari Costume.
Jenny Ibañez of Old Maluri Himog Bay was named Hara Advocate, while Deslate also received the Hari Advocate award.
The annual Saot sa Dunang Manggad highlights Sagay City’s identity as a coastal community, with each contingent presenting advocacy-driven performances focused on marine ecosystems such as pawikan, mangroves, corals, and giant clams, inspired by the environmental initiative of former Gov. Alfredo Marañon Jr.
The streetdance also featured free face painting sponsored by the Sagay Water District at Taliambong Food and Entertainment Village, Sagay City Public Terminal, and SWD Office.*
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