KORONADAL CITY (MindaNews / 10 January) – Koronadal celebrated its 86th foundation anniversary on Saturday with thousands of residents and visitors commemorating the milestone through the Hinugyaw Festival. The day began with a civic-military parade, featuring participation from the city’s 27 barangays, government agencies, and private organizations, drawing crowds along the streets. Vice Mayor Erlinda Pabi-Araquil welcomed national, provincial, and local officials, residents, and visitors on behalf of the city government, reflecting on the city’s origins. “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,” she said. This year’s festival, themed “Gateway to Culture and Creativity,” highlights the city’s cultural diversity, bringing together indigenous communities, Muslims, and Christians. Originating from the Hiligaynon word “hinugyaw,” meaning “merriment” or “joyful celebration,” the festival began in 2000 and has since become a cornerstone of Koronadal’s identity. Araquil encouraged the community to support local artisans and performers, ensuring Koronadal remains a hub of culture and creativity. Senator Loren Legarda, the event’s keynote speaker, praised Koronadal’s peaceful and progressive community, urging residents to invest in their cultural heritage and traditions. The city’s name comes from the Blaan words “koron” (cogon grass) and “nadal” (plain), while locals also refer to it as “Marbel”, meaning murky waters. Established under Commonwealth Act 141, Koronadal became a city on October 8, 2000, following the ratification of Republic Act 8803.
