TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte — The Durian Festival 2026 concluded with a celebration of culinary excellence as the University of Mindanao-Tagum College (UMTC) claimed the overall championship title. The announcement was made following the series of cooking competitions held at the Tagum Trade and Exhibition Center from August 29 to 30, 2026.
A Showcase of Student Culinary Prowess
The festival brought together several schools, each demonstrating remarkable creativity and culinary skills using durian as the main ingredient. The competitions tested participants across various categories, from street food to elaborate desserts. The event served as a platform for young talents to explore the versatility of the beloved fruit.
The University of Mindanao-Davao (UM-Davao) secured second place overall, while Joji Ilagan College of Business & Tourism (JICBT) took third place. These institutions consistently performed well across multiple categories, showcasing their rigorous training programs. Their participation highlighted the strong culinary education system in the region.
UMTC Dominates Multiple Categories
UMTC's path to victory was marked by consistent wins. In the Street Food Sweet & Savory category, UMTC took first place, followed by JICBT and UM-Davao. UMTC also triumphed in the Coffee Shop Series and the Celebration Cake competition, proving their versatility in both savory and sweet applications.
The university further demonstrated its prowess by securing first place in the Durian Booth Competition through Emerald Farm, a partner establishment. This win underscored the integration of academic training with practical industry applications. UMTC's performance across the board was a testament to their comprehensive culinary curriculum.
UM-Davao Delivers Strong Competition
UM-Davao emerged as a formidable contender, winning first place in the Pizza & Pasta, Coffee Hot, Cold, & Non-Coffee, Cocktail Extreme Flair Factor Male, Cocktail Extreme Flair Factor Female, and Durian Desserts categories. Their dominance in the dessert and beverage segments showcased their strength in technical precision and innovation.
The university's success in the cocktail flair competitions highlighted the students' showmanship and advanced mixology skills. Their performance in the durian desserts category demonstrated a deep understanding of flavor profiling. These wins contributed significantly to their second-place overall finish.
Recognition for Local Schools
Several other schools also earned accolades, including Daniel R. Aguinaldo National High School, Carlos P. Garcia Senior High School, and Tagum City National High School. Their participation highlighted the broad base of culinary talent in the region. These institutions secured podium finishes in various categories, proving that excellence is not limited to universities.
Farms also played a role in the festival's success, with Emerald Farm, Tebar Farm, and Unifarm winning the Durian Booth Competition. Their presence underscored the festival's connection to local agriculture. The event successfully brought together academic institutions, local businesses, and the farming community.
A Festival Rooted in Sustainable Prosperity
The festival's theme, "From Farm to Festival: Celebrating Sustainable Prosperity," was evident throughout the event. It highlighted the journey of durian from local farms to the competition stage. The celebration emphasized the importance of sustainable agriculture and the hard work of local farmers.
By showcasing durian's versatility, the event broadened its appeal beyond traditional consumption. The festival provided a platform for entrepreneurs and food artisans to showcase their products. It reinforced Tagum City's commitment to supporting local industries and culinary innovation.
A Celebration of Community and Talent
Beyond the competitions, the Durian Festival was a celebration of community spirit. Families, friends, and food enthusiasts gathered to enjoy the festivities and sample durian creations. The event featured live music, a Grand Durian Buffet, and endless durian-infused desserts and cocktails.
The festival served as a perfect opportunity to discover the best durian varieties and support local businesses. The participation of schools and local enterprises highlighted the vibrancy of Tagum City's culture. The three-day event was a testament to the region's culinary talent and agricultural heritage.
