Baguio City, Philippines – The 2024 Panagbenga Cultural Dance Competition, themed "Rhythm & Blooms of the Highlands," unfolded with grace and fervor at the Melvin Jones Grandstand & Football Grounds on February 18, 2024.
This year, the extravaganza, which is among the highlight of the annual flower festival, brought together 24 entries weaving tales of tradition, diversity, and unity through dance.
Three fundamental criteria shaped the assessment by the selection committee - choreography, performance, and props/costume.
Choreography, constituting 35 percent of the evaluation, scrutinized the fluidity, innovation, and narrative coherence of each performance. Meanwhile, performance, sharing an equal weight, delved into the execution, synchronization, and audience engagement exhibited by the dancers. The remaining 30 percent focused on the visual elements of props and costumes, evaluating their contribution to storytelling and aesthetic enhancement.
Among all entries, it was University of Cordillera’s “Saeng ya Kasay Cultural Ensemble” (Entry No. 21) that emerged as the undisputed victor, clinching the coveted title and the prize of P100,000.
The group’s performance, titled "Tawid," transcended mere choreography, symbolizing the harmonious convergence of cultures and traditions. With "Tawid," Saeng ya Kasay eloquently portrayed the diversity and unity within their community, earning not only the top honor but also the distinguished Excellence in Choreography award.
Securing the second position was the Bimaak Cultural Dance Troupe (Entry No. 7), whose presentation earned them the prize of P70,000 and the accolade of Excellence in Cultural Dance Attire. Meanwhile, the Sakusak Musical Ensemble (Entry No. 23) clinched the third spot, receiving both a prize of P50,000 and a special award for Innovation in Musical Arrangement.
Non-winning entries received consolation prizes of P40,000 each. Among these participants were Kontad - La Trinidad; UP Youth Organization - Cypress, Baguio City; Yaman Di Gangsa - Bibak, Baguio City; Dap – ay Cultural Dance Group - Irisan; Ub- Ubbo Di Umili ay Kalalaychan - Baguio City; Joaquin Smith NHS Cultural Dance Group - Asin Road; Uggayam Cultural Group - San Vicente; and Turayan Cultural Group - Balsigan.
Also receiving the same prize were official entries from Also among the Allilahey Cultural Theater Arts Group - La Trinidad; Cholibes Cultural Group - Camp 8; Salibi Cultural Group - Guisad Road; Gannay Cultural Group - Brookside; Gasat Cultural Group - Quirino Hill; Kataguan Dance Troupe - Loakan; Siglat Di Botiwtiw - La Trinidad; Talibeng Cultural Ensemble - La Trinidad; Kabadang ti Itogon - Itogon; Am-aamong Chi Dangadang Ya Ichurya - Harisson Road; Cordillera Brotherhood Organization (CBO) - Baguio City; Dang-Danggay - Navy Base; and Tangguyob Di Gangsa - Baguio City.
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