From the fields of Moncada to the heart of wonders: Moncada’s Strong Run at the 10th Kanlahi Festival

The municipality of Moncada, Tarlac once again made its presence felt in the provincewide celebration of the Kanlahi Festival, demonstrating how a town grounded in agriculture and culture can translate its identity into meaningful participation on the festival stage. In an event where municipalities across the province present their best in culture, products, and performance, Moncada carried with it a story shaped by its people, its harvests, and the ingenuity that has long defined the community. Through a series of competitions and exhibitions, the town presented not just entries but narratives—each reflecting the character and creativity of the Moncadenian spirit.

One of the municipality’s most notable achievements came through the Bahay Kubo Competition of the Agri Cultura Exhibit held from March 2 to March 6, 2026, where Moncada secured a back-to-back championship. The structure went beyond the traditional image of a rural dwelling and instead functioned as a showcase of the town’s agricultural identity. The display highlighted Moncada’s well-known sweet kamote root crops and presented a range of locally inspired products including Don Benito Wine, a kamote wine; the Moncada Kamote Festival souvenir shirt; and Ice Kreamote, a dessert that has become a favorite among visitors. Together, these elements illustrated how the municipality continues to transform its primary crop into products that reflect both enterprise and cultural pride.

The town’s performers also brought their energy to the Street Dancing Competition on March 3, 2026, where twelve municipalities competed in a showcase of rhythm, storytelling, and coordinated movement. Representing Moncada, the dancers interpreted the town’s heritage through choreography and music that echoed the life and livelihood of its people. Their presentation earned the municipality the 1st Runner-Up title, placing Moncada among the top performers in one of the festival’s most anticipated events.

Moncada likewise stood out in the Float Competition, where participating municipalities presented moving displays that carried symbols of their communities along the parade route. The town’s float featured representations of local products and elements associated with the municipality’s agricultural tradition, creating a presentation that spoke directly to the identity of Moncada and its continuing celebration of kamote and other local produce. The entry was awarded 1st Runner-Up, adding another recognition to the municipality’s strong showing in the festival.

Local cuisine also found representation through Susan Iyaya Tangco of Sta. Lucia West, Moncada, Tarlac, who took part in the Kakanin Festival. Tangco, previously recognized as the champion of the Moncada Kamote Festival Lutong Lokal Culinaria Competition, presented a selection of traditional delicacies that incorporated both familiar and locally inspired ingredients. Her entries included Pininyahang Biko, Calamay with Langka, Kamote, and Buko, and Suman na Saging at Kamote—dishes that highlighted the adaptability of traditional kakanin while maintaining their connection to local flavors.

Completing Moncada’s participation were its representatives in the festival’s pageant events. Jerick Roel Concepcion represented the municipality in Ginoong Kanlahi, while Angel Romea Toledo carried the town’s banner in Binibining Kanlahi. Their participation ensured that Moncada was present across the many facets of the celebration, from agriculture and food to performance and representation.

Taken together, the municipality’s achievements in the 10th Kanlahi Festival reflect the continuing effort of Moncada to present its culture, products, and people in ways that honor both tradition and community identity.

Bida ka! Angat ka! Intayon, Moncada!

Click here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1UV6GZxZcq/