MATI CITY, Davao Oriental — Two performing arts groups from the province are carrying the weight of community pride as they step onto the Kadayawan stage this August. One defends a legacy of back-to-back championships, while another steps into the national spotlight for the very first time.
Balangay CityHigh: Chasing History
Balangay CityHigh Performing Arts of the City of Mati National High School returns with 161 performers, seeking an unprecedented three-peat in the Indak-Indak sa Kadayawan Open Category. They won in 2024 and 2025, earning over a million pesos and sweeping major awards. Their journey, however, began with a humbling fourth-place finish in 2018.
Founded under contingent manager Jayson Q. Alas, the group draws its name and spirit from the balangay, the ancient seafaring vessel. Their motto reflects resilience: no matter how difficult the voyage, continue sailing forward. This philosophy fueled their rise from defeat to dominance.
Their performances weave Mandaya heritage with contemporary movement, telling stories of coastal life and community persistence. Mayor Joel "Mayo" Almario has consistently supported the group, recognizing the young talents who showcase Mati City through dance and music. The pursuit of a third straight title is not just for trophies; it is a testament to years of sacrifice and growth.
Ka'aNiyogan: A First Dream Unfolds
Standing in contrast is the Ka'aNiyogan Performing Arts Guild of Tarragona, making its Kadayawan debut with around 200 young performers. Born from the town's inaugural Ka'Aniyogan Festival celebrating the coconut industry, the group represents a community eager to share its story. Mayor Art Benjie "Kaka" Bulaong and manager Fiel Melan Bulaong champion this bold first step.
Their presentation, titled "Tabi Ompo," honors the sacred Mandaya covenant with nature spirits. It is a request for permission and a declaration of respect before stepping onto sacred ground. The theme speaks to the town's deep connection to the land and its humble, hardworking identity.
For these students, Kadayawan is more than a competition. It is a chance to prove that beyond Tarragona's coconut trees lies a generation with something powerful to say. Their participation is a declaration that their culture deserves a national audience.
A Province United Behind Its Youth
Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang has extended full provincial support to both contingents. The provincial government recognizes that supporting these groups is not just about hoping for trophies. It is about telling young people that their talent, culture, and stories matter on the biggest stages.
The road to Kadayawan demands immense sacrifice. Students train after class and give up weekends, balancing academics with rigorous rehearsals. The logistics are equally challenging, with groups transporting hundreds of performers and heavy props over 150 kilometers.
A Shared Stage, A Shared Identity
When Balangay CityHigh and Ka'aNiyogan step onto the same stage, they carry one name: Davao Oriental. Their contrasting stories—one defending a legacy, the other building one—embody the province's spirit. Behind them stands a community that believes in their dreams.
This year, the stage is bigger, and so are their ambitions. Win or lose, their performances will showcase the richness of Mandaya culture and the fire of Oriental Davaoeño youth. The entire province is dancing right beside them, proud of every step they take.
