Tandag City gears up for 14th Sangkaan Festival
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur (PIA) — Tandag City is set to celebrate the 14th Sangkaan Festival from September 4 to 10, 2026, featuring a week-long lineup of cultural, environmental, sports, social, and entertainment activities.
With the theme, “Pagpakabalaan sa mga Pagkamalin-on Ipadayon, Para sa Dugang Kalambuan Kanato mga Tandaganon,” the festival highlights the city’s cultural heritage, community participation, and continuing efforts toward local development.
The celebration will open on September 4 with the ‘Kasalan sa Parokya’ or parish wedding at the San Nicolas de Tolentino New Cathedral in Barangay Rosario.
Among the major activities on September 5 are the ‘DagKal’ (dagan sa kalambuan) or run for progress, coastal and river cleanup, and the Du’mbaling Food Bazaar featuring Kinaham sa Tandag and other local delicacies. The evening will feature performances by the Khel Pangilinan and the Yudawans, Isla Maharlika Band, and PGO and Koryo bands.
The Grand Parade and Grand Opening Program will highlight the September 7 celebration, alongside Kapiskay social and health services and Hugyawan 2026, featuring local and guest performers.
Other activities include the Sangkaan Street Dancing Competition and Search for Sangkaan Festival Queen 2026, Sangkaan Challenge Pickleball Tournament, GKK Night, Sangkaan Theatrical Showdown, and evening concerts featuring local and invited artists.
The celebration will culminate on September 10 with a concelebrated Mass, followed by performances and fireworks at the Vicente L. Pimentel Sr. Boulevard.
The annual festival provides a platform for Tandag City residents to celebrate their heritage, showcase local talents and products, strengthen community participation, and promote the city as a destination for culture, recreation, and local tourism.
The Sangkaan Festival also reflects the local government’s continuing efforts to promote culture-based development, community engagement, and inclusive local growth, contributing to the broader goal of bringing development opportunities closer to the people. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)
