Koronadal City marked a historic milestone as it celebrated its 86th Founding Anniversary alongside the vibrant Hinugyaw Festival 2026, uniting thousands of residents and visitors in a joyful celebration of culture, creativity, and community spirit.
The celebration kicked off with a grand civic-military parade on Saturday, January 10, 2026, featuring participants from all 27 barangays of Koronadal City, along with government agencies and private organizations. Thousands of spectators lined the streets to witness the colorful procession that set the tone for the day festivities.
Vice Mayor Erlinda Pabi-Araquil welcomed national, provincial, and local officials on behalf of the city government. In her speech, she reflected on the city journey: Today we stand at a remarkable milestone — 86 years since the establishment of the Marbel Settlement District on January 10, 1939, which paved the way for the vibrant city of Koronadal we know and love.
This year festival carried the theme Hinugyaw 2026: Gateway to Culture and Creativity. From the Hiligaynon word meaning merriment or joyful celebration, the festival brings together indigenous communities, Muslims, and Christians, reflecting a shared identity forged through history and enriched by diversity.
The Hinugyaw Festival was first conducted in 2000, the same year Koronadal officially became a city after residents ratified Republic Act 8803. Since then, the festival has grown into one of the most anticipated cultural events in the SOCCSKSARGEN region.
Senator Loren Legarda served as the event main guest and keynote speaker, congratulating local officials and residents for making Koronadal a peaceful and progressive community despite its diverse peoples and cultures. The city of Koronadal already has strong foundations with a rich mix of cultures, a tradition of hard work, and people who care about their townmates, she said.
Koronadal originated from two Blaan words — koron or kolon meaning cogon grass, and nadal or datal meaning plain. The city also carries the name Marbel, a Blaan word meaning murky waters, reflecting the deep indigenous roots that continue to shape its identity today.
As the capital of South Cotabato and the seat of government of Region 12, Koronadal continues to serve as a cultural and economic hub where tradition and progress go hand in hand. The 86th Founding Anniversary and Hinugyaw Festival 2026 stand as a proud reminder of how far the city has come and the bright future that lies ahead.