THE Basilan Medical Center (BMC) has bagged the championship title and P140,000 cash prize in Sakayan Festival 2025 as the judges were impressed with BMC’s float that beautifully represented Yakan culture, blending intricate patterns with meaningful symbolism.
The Sakayan Festival 2025 held on Friday, April 25, has brought together nine organizations and institutions, each assigned a distinct cultural community to highlight unity in diversity and promote cultural appreciation.
The Department of Education (DepEd)-Isabela City Schools Division Office claimed second place and took home P90,000 for their creative showcase of Cebuano traditions.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) secured third place, winning P70,000 for their vibrant portrayal of Tagalog heritage.
Consolation prizes of P20,000 each were awarded to commendable entries as follows: PCCI Isabela de Basilan, represented the Chinese community; Eagles Club, the Ilonggo community; Tyro Gyn Phi, Chavacano community; Alpha Kappa Rho, the Tausug community; Anak Mindanao, Maguindanao community; the Land Transportation Office, represented the Sama Banguingui community.
Isabela City Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman said the Sakayan Festival is a symbol of Isabela’s journey as a city and a tribute to the diverse cultural communities that call it home
“This (Sakayan festival) is a celebration of the different cultural communities of Isabela. The sakayan represents not only our seafaring history but also the journey of each individual and group that has made Isabela their home,” Hataman said in an interview.
She further underscored that Isabela City’s true progress lies not just in infrastructure or indicators, but in the growing sense of belonging and purpose among its people.
“Every Isabeleño now knows that they are valued, that they matter, and that they play a role in building our city,” she added.
The Sakayan Festival, now in its third year, is part of the efforts of the local government to attract tourists to visit Isabela City.
Jamju Rivera, Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions Officer, said Isabela City is fast becoming a tourism attraction as 513,000 foreign and local tourist visited Isabela in 2024.
“In previous years, we are already happy to have 25,000 tourists visiting the city in one year,” Rivera said.
He hopes that the increasing trend in the number of tourists visiting the city will continue.
The attendees of the festival were also treated to a colorful musical medley and fashion show, combining traditional attire and contemporary design in a creative expression of heritage and modernity.
The Sakayan Festival concluded with a spectacular fireworks display that lit up Isabela City skyline. (SunStar Zamboanga)