NDMU-IBED Makes Remarkable Debut at the 4th Saot Folk Dance Competition, Bringing Home Honors

Notre Dame of Marbel University (NDMU) proudly congratulates the NDMU-Integrated Basic Education Department (IBED) Elementary & Junior High School and Senior High School contingents for their outstanding debut performance at the 4th Saot Folk Dance Competition, one of the major cultural highlights of the 27th T'nalak Festival and 60th Foundation Anniversary of the Province of South Cotabato, held on July 10, 2026, at the South Cotabato Gymnasium and Cultural Center.

Representing both Notre Dame of Marbel University and the City of Koronadal, the two NDMU-IBED teams showcased exceptional artistry, discipline, and cultural excellence in a competition that gathered schools and community-based dance groups from across the province under the festival theme, "Our Culture, Our Strength, Our Pride."

Competing for the very first time in the prestigious provincial competition, the university demonstrated that passion, preparation, and commitment to preserving Filipino heritage transcend institutional boundaries.

The NDMU-IBED Elementary & Junior High School Department, composed of Grade 5 to Grade 7 learners, competed in Bracket A (Ages 9–12) against four other entries. Their captivating performance of "Binoyugan," a Lowland Christian dance from Estanza, Lingayen, Pangasinan researched by Jovita Sison-Frese, earned the team the distinction of 2nd Runner-up. The dance, whose title means "With the use of the big pot," vividly portrayed the ingenuity and everyday traditions of the community through graceful movements, vibrant choreography, and authentic cultural expression.

Meanwhile, the NDMU-IBED Senior High School Department competed in Bracket B (Ages 13–18) alongside eight other competing groups. Their presentation of "Palóbo," a Lowland Christian dance from San Narciso, Quezon Province, researched by Joe Anthony Lingayo Basco of the Hiyas Kalilayan Cultural Group, was recognized with a 5th Runner-up finish. Meaning "To express indirectly," Palóbo beautifully conveyed subtle expressions of courtship and social interaction through refined movements and engaging storytelling rooted in Philippine tradition.

The success of both contingents reflects months of dedication, discipline, and collaborative effort. The Elementary & Junior High School team was coached by Ms. Frances Marie Galo together with her assistants, while the Senior High School contingent was coached by Ms. Nonalyn Doloretos, Mr. Reynaldo Bautista III, and Mr. Charles Capulot. Both teams were trained, staged, and styled by Vince Marc B. Sabado, whose artistic direction ensured that every performance authentically represented the beauty and richness of Philippine folk dance traditions.

Beyond the awards received, the participation of NDMU-IBED signifies a deeper commitment to preserving and promoting the nation's rich cultural heritage. Through folk dance, students develop not only technical excellence and artistic appreciation but also discipline, teamwork, cultural awareness, and a profound respect for the diverse traditions that shape Filipino identity.

The university's participation strongly reflects its mission of forming competent, culturally grounded, and socially responsible individuals. It likewise resonates with the University's commitment to nurturing harmony, excellence, and service while providing transformative learning experiences beyond the classroom.

The achievement also supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, by providing meaningful experiential learning through arts and culture; SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, by safeguarding and promoting the country's intangible cultural heritage; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, through the collaborative efforts of the university, the City of Koronadal, the Provincial Government of South Cotabato, parents, coaches, and the wider community in advancing cultural preservation.

As NDMU celebrates this milestone, the university likewise honors the commitment of its student performers, coaches, trainers, parents, faculty members, and administrators whose collective efforts made this historic participation possible. More than the trophies and rankings, the experience stands as a testament to the University's unwavering dedication to preserving Filipino culture, inspiring young cultural ambassadors, and proudly showcasing the richness of Philippine folk traditions on the provincial stage.

Congratulations once again to the NDMU-IBED Elementary & Junior High School and Senior High School contingents for a memorable and inspiring first appearance at the 4th Saot Folk Dance Competition. Your performances have brought pride not only to Notre Dame of Marbel University but also to the City of Koronadal and the entire NDMU community.