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...
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’re worth visiting early.
Long before the big concerts and parades, the MunaTo Festival offers a quieter but deeply enriching side — one I always look forward to.
Every year, I love taking my time exploring the MunaTo Cultural Exhibit and MunaTo ArtFest. There’s something special about seeing local artists showcase their craft — from handwoven textiles to intricate beadwork, paintings, woodwork, and pieces that tell stories only a Sarangan can tell.
I also enjoy strolling through the MunaTo Market, discovering local products and homegrown brands that deserve to be highlighted. Sarangani is rich with unique craftsmanship and food products, and featuring them — whether online or on social media — has always been a personal advocacy. Supporting local isn’t just about buying from them; it’s about giving their work visibility.
If you share the same love for local culture and creativity, the pre-festival events are a must-visit.
The festival begins with a meaningful Panagtagbo sa Munato and Panagtagbo Pagtuo Interfaith Rally, setting the tone of togetherness. The youth take center stage through Roots and Rhythm, followed by traditional Indigenous People’s games and Moro activities that highlight Sarangani’s multicultural heritage.
At night, the energy intensifies during the Thematic Dance Competition, capped with a dazzling Grand Fireworks Display. The opening day ends on a high note with a performance from powerhouse singer Gigi De Lana.
But my personal go-to spot remains the Sarangani Pavilion. It's where the province’s tribes — Blaan, T’boli, and Moro communities — proudly showcase their traditions and cultural artistry. Every corner feels like a window into the province’s identity.
The evening then transforms into a night of beauty, empowerment, and purpose with the Pearl of Sarangani 2025 – Grand Coronation Night.
After the Closing Ceremony, the final Grand Fireworks Display lights up the sky, and the celebration wraps up with a spectacular concert featuring indie favorite Lola Amour — the perfect finale to three unforgettable days. 
For me, MunaTo is more than an annual festival; it’s a homecoming of culture, art, and community. It’s a reminder of why Sarangani is such a special place — a province where heritage and creativity thrive side by side.
Whether you're a culture lover, an adrenaline seeker, a music fan, or simply someone who wants to rediscover Sarangani, MunaTo Festival 2025 promises something memorable for everyone.
Padayon, Sarangani! Kita-kits sa Capitol Grounds!
Mark your calendars, invite your friends, and immerse yourself in the richness of Sarangani’s culture. The 33rd Founding Anniversary and 23rd MunaTo Festival is here — and the celebration is only getting bigger, brighter, and more meaningful.
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’re worth visiting early.
Pre-Festival Activities: A Personal Favorite
Long before the big concerts and parades, the MunaTo Festival offers a quieter but deeply enriching side — one I always look forward to.
Every year, I love taking my time exploring the MunaTo Cultural Exhibit and MunaTo ArtFest. There’s something special about seeing local artists showcase their craft — from handwoven textiles to intricate beadwork, paintings, woodwork, and pieces that tell stories only a Sarangan can tell.
I also enjoy strolling through the MunaTo Market, discovering local products and homegrown brands that deserve to be highlighted. Sarangani is rich with unique craftsmanship and food products, and featuring them — whether online or on social media — has always been a personal advocacy. Supporting local isn’t just about buying from them; it’s about giving their work visibility.
If you share the same love for local culture and creativity, the pre-festival events are a must-visit.
THREE DAYS OF FESTIVITIES: A Celebration of Sarangani’s Soul
Day 1 – November 28: Unity, Youth, and a Spectacular Opening Night
The festival begins with a meaningful Panagtagbo sa Munato and Panagtagbo Pagtuo Interfaith Rally, setting the tone of togetherness. The youth take center stage through Roots and Rhythm, followed by traditional Indigenous People’s games and Moro activities that highlight Sarangani’s multicultural heritage.
At night, the energy intensifies during the Thematic Dance Competition, capped with a dazzling Grand Fireworks Display. The opening day ends on a high note with a performance from powerhouse singer Gigi De Lana.
Day 2 – November 29: Heritage, Adrenaline, and Prestige
Saturday ignites with the 4th Governor’s Invitational Motocross Competition — fast, loud, and thrilling at the Avia Estate grounds.But my personal go-to spot remains the Sarangani Pavilion. It's where the province’s tribes — Blaan, T’boli, and Moro communities — proudly showcase their traditions and cultural artistry. Every corner feels like a window into the province’s identity.
The evening then transforms into a night of beauty, empowerment, and purpose with the Pearl of Sarangani 2025 – Grand Coronation Night.
Day 3 – November 30: Street Rhythms and a Grand Finale
The festival reaches its peak with the Sayaw-Sayaw sa Kadalanan, Sarangani’s grand street dancing parade. It's impossible not to get swept up in the colors, movements, and infectious energy of the performers.After the Closing Ceremony, the final Grand Fireworks Display lights up the sky, and the celebration wraps up with a spectacular concert featuring indie favorite Lola Amour — the perfect finale to three unforgettable days.
For me, MunaTo is more than an annual festival; it’s a homecoming of culture, art, and community. It’s a reminder of why Sarangani is such a special place — a province where heritage and creativity thrive side by side.
Whether you're a culture lover, an adrenaline seeker, a music fan, or simply someone who wants to rediscover Sarangani, MunaTo Festival 2025 promises something memorable for everyone.
Padayon, Sarangani! Kita-kits sa Capitol Grounds!
Mark your calendars, invite your friends, and immerse yourself in the richness of Sarangani’s culture. The 33rd Founding Anniversary and 23rd MunaTo Festival is here — and the celebration is only getting bigger, brighter, and more meaningful.
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