COTABATO - Cotabato province celebrated its 110th founding anniversary with a strong message of unity and respect among its diverse tribal communities, highlighted during the Kalivugan Festival's culmination event.

According to Philippines News Agency, who spoke at the event, the province's progress is heavily reliant on the harmony and mutual respect among the indigenous communities, Moro groups, and Christians. She emphasized that the vast and fertile lands of Cotabato allow for peaceful coexistence and joint economic efforts such as farming. Mendoza also urged the residents to honor their leaders, elders, and ancestors, acknowledging their roles in the province’s development.

The festival, a showcase of Cotabato’s cultural heritage and natural resources, concluded with a street dancing competition. M’lang emerged as the grand champion, claiming a PHP1 million prize and an additional PHP100,000 for the Best in Musicality award. Midsayap also received accolades, winning both the Best in Street Dancing and Best in Costume awards.