TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte (PIA) — Tagum City is transforming its barangays into musical destinations, with the city government, through the Tagum City Tourism and Cultural Office (CTCO), expanding sectoral involvement in Musikahan sa Tagum.
CTCO head Alma L. Uy, president and co-chairperson of the Tagum City Tourism, Culture, and Arts Council Inc., said the office and council ensured Musikahan sa Tagum reached all 23 barangays through the Musikahan Community Outreach and the “Barangay Musikahan” theater musical competition.
With P3 million in financial support from the city government and sponsorships, the tourism council and CTCO held the 22nd Musikahan sa Tagum Festival from Feb. 17-23 as a prelude to Tagum’s 27th founding anniversary.
Beyond the traditional rondalla and choral competitions, the festival featured Barangay Musikahan, a theater musical competition showcasing the competing barangays’ culture, heritage, values and environmental harmony.
Uy said this year, the 23 barangays were divided into two groups, with 12 participating in the Barangay Musikahan competitions. The other 11 barangays experienced the festival through performances by visiting musical contingents from various locations in the country.
The 12 competing barangays received coaching to enhance their performances and prepare them for the championship, while the 11 non-competing barangays underwent training and workshops in preparation for the 2026 Musikahan sa Barangay, Uy said.
“Our goal is that once our barangays are ready, this will become another destination for visitors, who can watch performances in each barangay every night,” she said.
Of the 12 competing barangays, five advanced to the finals during the Musikahan sa Tagum Festival closing ceremonies. Barangay Apokon won the P300,000 grand champion prize and the Trophy of Excellence.
Barangay La Filipina placed second, receiving a P200,000 prize and a Certificate of Excellence.
Barangay Busaon placed third, receiving a P100,000 prize and a Certificate of Excellence.
Barangay Pagsabangan and Barangay East received honorable mentions. Non-winning barangays received a P10,000 consolation prize each. (JMDAbangan/PIA XI)
