By JOEL C. ESCOL, Managing Editor
Cagayan de Oro, August 26, 2024 — The streets of Cagayan de Oro City were alive with color, music, and the rhythmic beats of drums as Barangay Carmen emerged victorious as Overall Champion in the highly anticipated Higalaay Festival street dancing competition.
Barangay Carmen grabbed the P400,000 cash as the overall showdown champion, followed by Barangay Gusa as 2nd Runner, with a cash prize of P300,000. Barangay Taglimao grabbed the 3rd prize and also took home P200,000. Carmen was also chosen as the DITO Choice Award and Minute Burger Choice Award.
Mayor Rolando Uy thanked all barangays who participated in the festival which made this year a most successful celebration. The 11 contingent came from the following barangays : Nazareth, Canitoan, Clustered barangays, Carmen, Puerto, Bugo, Lapasan, Cugman, Baikingon, Macabalan ug Gusa.
This annual event, a highlight of the city’s festivities, saw 11 talented groups from various barangays compete for the coveted title. However, it was Barangay Carmen’s vibrant performance that captured the hearts of the judges and spectators alike, securing them the top spot.
A Spectacle of Culture and Creativity
The Higalaay Festival, which celebrates the feast of St. Augustine, the city’s patron saint, is known for its grand street dancing competition. This year’s event was no exception, drawing large crowds eager to witness the creativity, energy, and cultural pride of the participating groups. Each contingent showcased a unique interpretation of Cagayan de Oro’s rich history and traditions, blending traditional dance with contemporary choreography.
Barangay Carmen’s performance stood out with its meticulous attention to detail, from the elaborate costumes to the precise execution of their choreography. The dancers portrayed a captivating narrative, paying homage to the city’s heritage while also incorporating modern elements that resonated with the audience. Their synchronized movements, infectious energy, and stunning visual presentation earned them high praise from the judges.
Celebrating Victory and Community Spirit
The victory of Barangay Carmen was met with cheers and applause from the crowd, especially from the residents of Carmen who turned out in full support. The group’s win is seen as a testament to the strong sense of community and teamwork that the barangay embodies. Many attributed their success to months of rigorous preparation, with dancers and organizers alike dedicating countless hours to perfecting every aspect of their performance.
Barangay Carmen’s win at the Higalaay Festival street dancing competition not only brings pride to their community but also highlights the importance of preserving and celebrating the cultural heritage of Cagayan de Oro. As the city continues to grow and modernize, events like these serve as a reminder of the rich traditions that have shaped its identity.
Looking Forward
As the celebrations continue, Barangay Carmen is already looking forward to next year’s competition, with plans to defend their title and continue showcasing the vibrancy and resilience of their community. The success of this year’s Higalaay Festival street dancing competition reaffirms the festival’s role as a cornerstone of Cagayan de Oro’s cultural life, bringing together residents and visitors in a shared celebration of art, history, and community spirit.