Competition at 16 finalists for Indak-Indak dance event
The Kadayawan Festival, a vibrant and colourful celebration honoring the city's 11 ethnolinguistic tribes, is set to return on August 17, 2025. Rojean Grace G. Patumbon, festival organiser Harold Quibete announced during an interview at Habi at Kape on August 13, 2025, at Ayala Malls Abreeza.
This year, the festival will feature two major events: the Pamulak sa Kadayawan and the Indak-Indak sa Kadayawan. Both events will take place on the same day, promising an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
In the Indak-Indak sa Kadayawan and Pamulak sa Kadayawan parade, approximately 6,000 walking contingents are expected to participate, showcasing their unique dance routines, colourful costumes, and intricate floats. There are 16 contestants in the Indak-Indak sa Kadayawan, with the Sindac Anib's Performing Arts Guild from Bislig, Surigao del Sur, a three-time champion, aiming to retain their title in the open category. The Davao City National High School is returning to defend their title in the Davao City school-based category.
The Sindac Anib is not the only contender with high hopes. The defending champion is also aiming to retain their title in the open category. In the gamay category, the grand champion will receive P500,000, the second place P400,000, the third place P300,000, and four consolation prizes of P75,000 each. In the Pamulak sa Kadayawan, there are 12 participants for the large category, 12 for the gamay category, and 10 non-capping floats. The grand winner of the Pamulak big category will receive P800,000, the second place P600,000, the third place P400,000, and four consolation prizes of P100,000 each.
The festival organisers have also made efforts to ensure the safety of the celebrations. The Public Safety and Security Office (PSSO) and other security forces have coordinated to provide a secure environment for all participants and attendees.
The Kadayawan Festival is not just about competition. It is a celebration that aims to give importance to schools, not only those with SPA in their curriculum but also to other schools. The turnout for the Davao City school-based category is high, which is a good sign for the celebration.
In addition to the cash prizes, the winners of both the open category and the Davao City schools category will receive P1 million, along with plaques, and 150 medals. Special awards for best in music, best choreographer, and best artistic design come with P50,000 each.
The Kadayawan Festival 2025 promises to be a spectacular event, filled with colour, music, and dance. If the Davao City National High School wins this year, they will extend their winning streak for another year. Don't miss out on this unforgettable celebration!
[1] Kadayawan Festival 2025: Prizes and Participants [2] Sindac Anib Aims to Retain Title in Kadayawan Festival [5] Kadayawan Festival 2025: A Celebration of Culture and Tradition
- The Indak-Indak sa Kadayawan parade, part of the Kadayawan Festival 2025, will see the participation of approximately 6,000 walking contingents, including the Sindac Anib's Performing Arts Guild from Bislig, Surigao del Sur, competing in the open category.
- The Davao City National High School, defending champion of the Davao City school-based category in the Kadayawan Festival 2025, is returning to defend their title in the celebration.
