Buenavista: The municipality of Buenavista in Guimaras was declared champion during the cultural competition of the 2026 Manggahan Festival on Sunday evening. Represented by Hubon Palayag, the presentation highlighted the uniqueness of Buenavista, focusing on its traditional abaca weaving industry, galleon or miniature boat-making industry, and the town's demonstration of resiliency following a sea tragedy in 2019.

According to Philippines News Agency, Palayag also secured awards for best in story concept, choreography, and performance. Meanwhile, Hubon Bulantihan from the municipality of Jordan achieved second place and was awarded best in production design, while Hubon Balsahan from the municipality of Sibunag placed third. Palayag received a PHP1.5 million cash prize, while Bulantihan and Balsahan were awarded PHP1 million and PHP500,000, respectively.

The non-winning groups, Hubon Sadsaran of the municipality of Nueva Valencia, and Hubon Panugday of the town of San Lorenzo, received PHP250,000 each as consolation prizes. Governor Ma. Lucille Nava, in her message, described the cultural competition as the 'sweetest culmination' of the 10-day Manggahan Festival. She noted that the performances reflect the growth and passion of the island, showcasing the creative expression and uniqueness of each municipality, beyond the renowned 'sweetest' mangoes of Guimaras.

"Our greatest achievement for this celebration is that we have proudly celebrated our identity as a province. We have embodied it in the whole Manggahan Festival. And we have shown the world who we really are," Nava stated. Meanwhile, Guimaras Lone District Representative JC Rahman Nava committed PHP20 million worth of projects for the five participating municipalities next year.