GENERAL SANTOS CITY (MindaNews / 8 October) — Sultan Kudarat, a province renowned for its serene mountains, enigmatic caves, and vibrant bird sanctuaries, is poised to capture global attention. The Kalimudan Festival, marking the province’s 52nd founding anniversary on November 22, will merge traditional cultural performances with appearances by internationally acclaimed celebrities.
This year’s event will feature Filipino pop group SB19, popular across Asia, and Sandara Park, a former Philippine star who rose to fame with South Korean group 2NE1. SB19 will headline the opening ceremonies on November 26, while Park will close the festivities on November 22. The lineup also includes P-pop group BGYO and an ABS-CBN Kapamilya Celebrity Caravan showcasing local talents.
Sultan Kudarat Gov. Datu Pax Ali S. Mangudadatu emphasized the festival’s goal of elevating local traditions to a world-class stage. “Tradition remains at the heart of Kalimudan, but we want the world to witness our culture,” he said in a livestream on October 6. He highlighted the province’s cultural wealth, natural beauty, and rising stars, citing Miss Universe Philippines 2025 Top 6 finalist Chelsea Fernandez as an example.
The festival’s popularity has surged, drawing 450,000 attendees in 2024, including visitors from neighboring regions. Mangudadatu believes this year’s fusion of heritage and pop culture will attract a global audience, further boosting Sultan Kudarat’s international recognition. (Guia Rebollido / MindaNews)
