CAGAYAN de Oro City — Two school marching bands each won ₱100,000 after topping their respective divisions in the 21st Dahunog sa Dipolog Invitational Parade Band Competition on Oct. 3 along Explore Dipolog Boulevard.
Dipolog Pilot Demonstration School won the elementary division, while the Sindangan National High School Marching Sailors claimed the high school crown.
The competition was a major highlight of Dipolog’s annual festival, showcasing student performers’ musical skills, discipline and coordinated formations.
In the high school division, Zamboanga del Norte National High School (ZNNHS)–Turno Campus placed first runner-up and received ₱80,000. The ZNNHS Main Campus Rhythm and Riddle Band finished second runner-up, winning ₱60,000.
In the elementary division, Ilaya Elementary School placed first runner-up and received ₱80,000, while Sicayab Elementary School took second runner-up with ₱60,000.
Other finalists received consolation prizes ranging from ₱30,000 to ₱40,000.
Months of preparation
The Marching Sailors’ victory capped months of rehearsals involving student performers, band masters, choreographers and trainers, who prepared their musical pieces and formations for the competition.
Dahunog, a Cebuano word associated with a rumbling or thunderous sound, highlights the powerful beats of marching drums and brass bands.
The competition was part of Dipolog’s 12-day festival, which ran from Sept. 26 to Oct. 7 and featured street dance parades, concerts and the “KAPElikula” coffee and film showcase.
The festivities culminated on Oct. 7 with the Feast of the Holy Rosary, the city’s annual fiesta.
