Skip to main content

See you at the MunaTo Festival 2025 and Celebrate Sarangani’s Culture, Rhythm, and Resilience

As Sarangans, when it's the last week of November, we know the drill. It's MunaTo Festival! And yes, the festive spirit is rising once again in— and you can already feel the energy building up across Sarangani Province! As Sarangani celebrates its 33rd Founding Anniversary alongside the 23rd MunaTo Festival, the province pays tribute to its roots, its people, and its thriving cultural identity. “MunaTo,” meaning “First People,” is more than just a name — it's a reminder that Sarangani’s story is deeply grounded in its heritage and in the communities that have shaped its vibrant character. This year’s theme, “ Kultura Natin, Lakas Natin, ” captures the soul of the celebration — a powerful declaration that culture is at the heart of Sarangani’s strength and unity. From November 28 to 30, 2025, the Sarangani Capitol Grounds will once again come alive with music, color, and culture. But a personal favorite of mine? The festivities start even before the main program — and they’r...
Post a Comment

Koronadal City Gears Up for MindaCon 2025: A Fusion of Culture, Innovation, and a Sustainable Future

Koronadal City, Philippines – All systems are go for the 10th Mindanao ICT Conference (MindaCon 2025), the largest information and communications technology event in Mindanao. For the first time, the vibrant City of Koronadal will host this landmark gathering from June 19–21, 2025, at The Farm at Carpenter Hill.

Under the forward-thinking theme, “Innovating Mindanao’s Workforce for a Sustainable Industry 5.0,” the conference is poised to be a pivotal moment for the region's digital transformation. It’s more than just a tech event; it's a movement aimed at building a digital future that is inclusive, deeply rooted in Mindanao's rich culture, and driven by collaborative innovation.


The recent press conference at the South Cotabato Gym and Cultural Center highlighted the immense local and national support for the event. Leaders from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and the provincial and city governments have all thrown their weight behind MindaCon 2025. Their collective goal is to leverage the conference to spur job creation, develop local talent, and empower communities across the SOCCSKSARGEN region and beyond.

Host City Organizing Committee Lead Clint Junsay answers questions from the media.


"MindaCon is more than just a conference—it’s a movement," declared Clint Junsay, Host City Organizing Committee Lead. "It’s a celebration and a commitment to build a digital future that is rooted in culture, powered by innovation, and made possible by collaboration."

Tyron Jann B. Villanueva represents the Provincial Government of South Cotabato in the press conference.


Echoing this sentiment, Koronadal City officials expressed their readiness and pride in hosting the historic event, emphasizing their commitment to positioning the city as a hub of innovation and inclusive growth.

Tyron Jann B. Villanueva, representing the Provincial Government of South Cotabato, underscored the strategic role of MindaCon in fostering job creation and talent development across the province. “South Cotabato stands ready to be a key player in the Mindanao ICT ecosystem,” he affirmed.

DOST Region XII, through Provincial Director Giselle Eve G. Ortega-Siladan, highlighted its commitment to empower communities through innovation and technology-driven development. “Science and technology must empower—not isolate,” she stressed, aligning DOST’s initiatives with MindaCon’s vision of an inclusive Industry 5.0 landscape.

DICT Region XII Regional Director Engr. Ibrahim B. Guiapar Jr. reinforced the government’s role as both enabler and innovator, with initiatives like expanded connectivity, cybersecurity training, and digital literacy campaigns designed to bridge the digital divide across SOCCSKSARGEN and BARMM.

Christian Valeen Chiu, Co-Chair of the Koronadal ICT Council, expressed the city’s pride and readiness to host the historic conference. “Koronadal is more than ready,” Chiu affirmed. “We are ready with our people, our partnerships, and our purpose to champion innovation that is inclusive, rooted in our culture, and future-facing”.

Vice Mayor Erlinda Pabi-Araquil of the City of Koronadal also voiced the city’s unwavering support. “On behalf of the City Government headed by Mayor Ogena, we are proud to affirm our full legislative and institutional commitment to the success of the 10th MindaCon,” she stated.

“This landmark event underscores our vision to position our city as a hub of innovation, digital advancement, inclusive growth, and responsible stewardship of superior technology. The City Council, headed by yours truly, has unanimously endorsed legislative measures such as resolutions and ordinances which prioritize funding, logistical coordination, and interagency collaboration to ensure the seamless execution of the upcoming conference.”

The attendees of the MindaCon 2025 press conference


Attendees can look forward to a dynamic and comprehensive program featuring:

  • Investment Tours showcasing the region's potential.
  • Thought Leadership Panels with industry experts.
  • Skills-Building Workshops to enhance digital competencies.
  • Strategic Networking Sessions to foster collaboration.

MindaCon 2025 promises to be a powerful convergence of technology, talent, and tradition, shaping the future of Mindanao's digital landscape.

Don't miss out on this landmark event! Registration is now open.

Secure your spot by visiting the official MindaCon 2025 registration page.






Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Kingkim Beach and Bato Buri in Burias, Glan, Sarangani Province

If you think the white sand beaches of Gumasa in Glan, Sarangani Province are the only tourist spots the town can offer, you better suspend that thinking until you see what we've just discovered. Beyond Gumasa lies a hidden paradise called Bato Buri, accessible via KingKim resort in Barangay Burias, around 20km from Gumasa. Not very fancy but it will surely bring you closer to nature and would make you appreciate God's gifts to Sarangani. How to Get There If your are driving, go to Glan and take the road to Gumasa. Head on to Barangay Burias 20-km away. On the right side look out for the signage that says Burias Beach or Mingkat Gampal Elementary School. For those who are commuting, take the van to Glan from Veranza Mall. Drop off at the Terminal in Poblacion Glan. From there look for a motorcycle that will take you to Burias. Fare is usually Php 100.00. There are also big trucks that head straight to Margus. Their terminal is at Lagao Public Market, G...
Post a Comment
Read more

Your Ultimate Guide to SarBay Fest 2025!

Get ready, SarBay Seatizens! The biggest, boldest beach festival in Mindanao is back — and it's coming in hot. SarBay Fest 2025 is set to explode onto the shores of Gumasa, Glan, Sarangani Province from May 23 to 25. If you've been dreaming of white sand, live music, watersports, wild foam parties, and sunsets that look straight out of a postcard — this is your sign to clear your calendar. Whether you're a first-timer or a SarBay veteran, this guide has everything you need to survive and thrive at the most anticipated event in SOX. From what to pack to how to get there, from the full event lineup to the little details that will make your experience smoother — we’ve got you covered. What Exactly Is SarBay Fest? Short for Sarangani Bay Festival , SarBay Fest is more than just a beach party. Since 2006, it’s been the region’s biggest annual gathering celebrating marine conservation, local culture, and pure, unfiltered fun. It started as a way to raise awareness for the Sarang...
Post a Comment
Read more

Tuka Marine Park, Kiamba, Sarangani Province

In the idyllic town of Kiamba in the western part of Sarangani lies a hidden cove that has become a favorite among those who are seeking adventure and immersion in nature. The Tuka Marine Park, reachable via a 15-minute boat ride provides a one-of-a-kind beach experience. How to Get There Take whatever available modes of transportation to Kiamba, Sarangani Province. That's about an hour and a half drive. For those who are taking the public transportation, the bus fare is Php 100.00, while the van fare is P120.00. Buses are stationed at Bulaong Terminal in General Santos City, while you can take the van at Ablog Terminal along Daproza Street. The Tourism Information Office, which is also the booking office to Tuka Marine Park is located at the Kiamba Port, near the Municipal Plaza. From there you will need to take the boat ride that costs Php 121.00 pesos, which will take you to Tuka Marine Park and back to Kiamba Port. Entrance Fee, Environmental Fee, and Accommod...
Post a Comment
Read more