The municipality of Aritao emerged as the grand champion of the Grand Ammungan Festival (GAF) 2025 Street Dancing Competition, taking home the top prize of P150,000 awarded by the provincial government under the leadership of Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito. The event was held at the Nueva Vizcaya Sports Complex, Bayombong, on May 24, 2025.
Aritao’s vibrant and synchronized performance earned them not only the championship title but also the special awards for Best in Street dance and Best in Ritual, further solidifying their dominance in this year’s competition. This marks Aritao’s second win in the last five years, showcasing its consistent excellence in cultural performance. In 2023, the municipality placed as 1st runner-up.
Their 2025 presentation explored local beliefs about elemental spirits said to inhabit the forest, entities believed to bring illness when disturbed. Through expressive movement and storytelling, Aritao demonstrated how respect for nature is deeply rooted in local traditions. The performance depicted rituals of healing, offering, and reconciliation with these unseen forces, reflecting the rich spiritual heritage of their people.
Securing the top runner-up spots were the municipalities of Bambang, Bagabag, Villaverde, and Dupax del Sur, who were named 1st to 4th Runners-Up, respectively. Bambang captivated the judges with its artistic flair, earning Best in Costume, while Bagabag was honored with Best in Choreography for its exceptional stage execution.
Out of Nueva Vizcaya’s 15 municipalities, 11 participated in the lively and colorful street dancing competition, one of the most anticipated highlights of the province’s annual cultural celebration. The performances not only showcased the dancers’ talent and creativity but also brought to life the diverse traditions, folklore, and cultural identity of the Novo Vizcayanos. /jmcb
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