• ANDREW ALTAREJOS
The Municipality of Jimalalud in Negros Oriental recently celebrated its grandiose and colorful celebration held annually bringing the community together to showcase the town’s deep faith through its devotion to the miraculous Holy Child or Señor Santo Niño.
Sinulog de Jimalalud Festival is the local version of Cebu’s famous Sinulog Festival. One of the highlights of the festivities was the street dance and showdown competition that saw the participation of six tribes in each of the two categories.
Tribu Mainampoon of Jimalalud Central School, was declared this year’s grand champion under the children’s category. It also took home several special awards including Best Choreographer, Best in Showdown, Best in Costume, and Best in Musicality.
Tribu Makugihon of Tamao Elementary School, was awarded first runner-up, while Tribu Kabataan sa Owacan of Owacan Elementary School, was declared second runner-up. The tribe also received several awards including Best in Street Dance, Best in Introduction Video, and Sinulog Princess 2026.
Meanwhile, Tribu Lumad Luyompaktayon of Jimalalud National High School Team A, was the grand champion in the institution category. Their winning performance earned them several minor awards, including Best in Showdown, Best in Costume, Best Choreographer, Best in Musicality, Sinulog Queen 2026, and the Best in Cultural Authenticity Award.
Tribu ni Kapitan Alud of Jimalalud National High School Team B was awarded first runner-up honors. The tribe also bagged special awards including Best in Street Dance, and Best in Introduction Video. Tribu Ikahanon of Infant King Academy, was second runner-up.
Jimalaud Mayor Hazel Tuanda, together with the municipal officials presented the trophies and cash prizes to all the winners during the awarding ceremony at Judge Restituto V. Tuanda Jr. Sports and Cultural Complex.*
