31/07/2026
OFFICIAL STATEMENT OF THE TANJAY CITY TOURISM OFFICE
The Tourism Office of Tanjay City would like to address the concerns regarding the selection of Tanjay City's official contingent for the Buglasan Festival 2026 and to clarify misconceptions involving the Lumad PABANO contingent.
First and foremost, we would like to emphasize that no discrimination has been committed against the Lumad PABANO contingent. We recognize and commend their remarkable achievement as the Champion of the Sinulog sa Tanjay Festival 2026 Mock Battle Competition, and we warmly congratulate them for their outstanding performance and dedication.
For the guidance of the public, all barangay chairpersons and choreographers were clearly informed during the briefing and orientaion that the champion of the Sinulog sa Tanjay Festival 2026 would not automatically be designated as Tanjay City's official representative to this year’s Buglasan Festival. This was discussed before the competition commenced and formed part of the committee's long-standing plan since last year.
Furthermore, the official festival guidelines do not state that the winner of the local competition shall automatically represent the City in the provincial festival. It should also be noted that Tanjay City successfully staged the Bodbod Festival in December 2025, and the Festival Committee has since planned a different approach for this year’s Buglasan Festival.
As previously agreed upon by the committee, the City reserved the right to screen and select dancers, propsmen, and other members to form a new unified contingent composed of qualified performers from the 24 barangays of Tanjay City. This initiative aims to showcase the collective talent of our communities and to field the strongest possible delegation to represent Tanjay City on the provincial stage.
We respectfully reiterate that this decision was made long before the Sinulog sa Tanjay Festival 2026 and is not directed against any individual, barangay, or contingent. It is solely based on the City's established plans and its commitment to preparing the best possible representation for Buglasan Festival 2026.
We deeply value the contribution of every participating contingent, including Lumad PABANO, whose excellence has brought pride and inspiration to our community. We ask for everyone's understanding, respect, and continued support as we work together towards the shared goal of bringing honor to Tanjay City.
Let us continue to celebrate the spirit of unity, cultural heritage, and sportsmanship that our festivals are meant to promote as we represent our city on the provincial stage.
Thank you for your support and understanding.