By Vanessa B. Barayang, BA Comm-4, The Centralian Link Intern

Winners of the Dayaw and Binalaybay Competition receive their awards, including cash prizes, medals, and RMN merchandise, during the Hiligaynon Fiesta 2026 at Robinsons Place Jaro on March 30, with Central Philippine University’s Gian Isiah Bedia emerging as Binalaybay champion.

The Hiligaynon Fiesta 2026: Dayaw and Binalaybay Competition, organized by RMN Iloilo, was held on March 30, 2026, at Robinsons Place Jaro, bringing together student participants across Iloilo to celebrate the Hiligaynon language through spoken word and poetry. The event was hosted by Israel Vincent Dolido and Tiyoy Pancho, both anchormen from RMN Iloilo, and aimed to promote cultural appreciation and linguistic pride among the youth.

The program formally opened with a prayer, followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and the RMN theme song. Welcome remarks were delivered by Novie Guazo, Program Director of RMN Iloilo; Roderick Cejas, Station Manager of iFM Iloilo; and Luisa Bierneza, Mall Manager of Robinsons Place Jaro.

The rationale of the event was presented by Henry Lumawag, Special Projects Head of RMN Iloilo, together with Pearl-Porquez Parangan of Sumakwelan Iloilo, Inc., emphasizing the importance of preserving and promoting the Hiligaynon language. Messages were also delivered by Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, President of Central Philippine University, and Mr. Alain Russ Dimzon, Commissioner of the Hiligaynon Language Commission on the Filipino Language.

The competition featured seven contestants in the Dayaw category and eleven contestants in the Binalaybay category, each presenting performances that highlighted storytelling, creativity, and cultural identity. Participants were given the opportunity to express themselves through the Hiligaynon language, reinforcing its relevance in contemporary communication.

Following the performances and deliberation of judges, John Kenneth Obregoso from Caninguan National High School, Lambunao, Iloilo was declared the Dayaw champion, emerging as the top performer among seven contestants. Representing Central Philippine University, Elaisha Losaria Pomida was recognized as the Hara of the Dayaw competition.

In the Binalaybay category, Gian Isiah Bedia from Central Philippine University was named champion among eleven participants, further highlighting CPU’s excellence in literary performance.

Winners from both categories received ₱5,000 in cash, along with RMN merchandise and medals, while all contestants were awarded certificates of participation and gift cards.

Through meaningful performances and cultural expression, the Hiligaynon Fiesta 2026 successfully provided a platform for young individuals to celebrate their language, showcasing not only their talent but also the enduring value of Hiligaynon in today’s generation.