Kaogma has always been, at its core, a People’s Festival—one built on the culture, traditions, and spirit of Camarines Sur. This year was no different. Every event was designed around a singular, powerful idea: that the festival belongs entirely to the people who make it worth celebrating.
“People’s Festival ito, para sa tao. Kung wala kayo, wala kami. Kayo ang inspirasyon namin, kaya kami gumigising kada umaga, nagtatrabaho para sainyong lahat. Kaya itong Kaogma, para sainyo,” shared Governor Lray Villafuerte during the opening night.
While Kaogma Festival 2026 once again captivated thousands with its concerts, cultural showcases, and festive atmosphere, this year’s celebration also cast a spotlight on another dimension of CamSur—its thriving sports community. Throughout the week, athletes, families, and fitness enthusiasts gathered to compete in a series of sporting events that tested endurance, resilience, teamwork, and sheer determination.
Boy Kayod: A celebration of grassroots strength
The festival’s sporting events opened with Boy Kayod 2026, the Philippines’ grassroots triathlon, held on May 27 at Lago del Rey. The grueling competition challenged participants to combine cycling, paddling, and running—demanding not only physical endurance but also strategy, discipline, and teamwork.
Every pedal stroke, paddle pull, and stride toward the finish line reflected the hardworking spirit of the Bicolano people. More than a race, Boy Kayod was a tribute to perseverance, celebrating values deeply rooted in local communities.
Among the participants was Vincent Bantog of Team Magarao, who was hailed as the event’s overall champion. He shared that he and his teammates work as rice carriers, and in the two and a half months leading up to the race, hauling sacks in the rice fields was all the training they needed. “Habang yaon pa ang hakuton, sige lang kami.”
Bantog expressed deep gratitude to the Provincial Government, especially to Governor Villafuerte for championing a competition that uplifts everyday workers.
“Bilang mga taong halos dai man napapansin, nagkakaigwang event dahil sa kaisipan asin ginigibo nyang event na arog kaining Boy Kayod.”
Official Results:
Champion: Team Magarao — ₱100,000, 3 units of pedicab, and 3 sacks of rice (25 kg each)
2nd Place: Team Pili — ₱50,000, 2 units of pedicab, and 3 sacks of rice (25 kg each)
3rd Place: Team Buhi — ₱20,000, 1 unit of pedicab, and 3 sacks of rice (25 kg each)
Winning teams were rewarded with cash prizes, pedicabs, and sacks of rice, emphasizing the event’s grassroots nature and its commitment to supporting local communities.
Mud Race: Finding strength in the mess
The excitement continued with Mud Race 2026, where participants willingly traded clean uniforms for mud-covered memories. Competitors crawled, climbed, splashed, and powered through challenging obstacles across slippery terrain, creating an atmosphere filled with laughter, grit, and friendly competition. Families, children, couples, and solo racers all took part—proof that the spirit of Kaogma knows no age.
Official Results:
Family Category:
1st place: Payong Family — ₱20,000
2nd place: Azada Family — ₱14,000
3rd place: Esclanda Family — ₱10,000
Kids Category:
1st place: Novallasca — ₱5,000
2nd place: Pardiñas — ₱2,000
3rd place: Palton — ₱1,000
Female Category:
1st place: Anie Claire Litan — ₱20,000
2nd place: Rosabel Quisay — ₱14,000
3rd place: Cherrylyn Mabelin — ₱10,000
Male Category:
1st place: Mariano Basegre — ₱20,000
2nd place: Rolando Añonuevo — ₱14,000
3rd place: Rich Padayao — ₱10,000
Couples Category:
1st place: Jobert & Ann Rizza — ₱20,000
2nd place: Calypso & Sean Andrei — ₱14,000 3rd place: Mark Anthony & Priscilla Hosana — ₱10,000
Special Awards for Best Fancy Dress:
Family Category:
1st place: Azada Family — ₱10,000
2nd place: Marjorie Cleofas — ₱6,500
3rd place: Payong Family — ₱3,500
Kids Category:
1st place: Nathan — ₱5,000
2nd place: Rianna — ₱2,000
3rd place: Francis — ₱1,000
Female Category:
1st place: Lhianhie Biag — ₱10,000
2nd place: Marjorie Zamora — ₱6,500
3rd place: Lyka Triumfante — ₱3,500
Male Category:
1st place: Deogenes Bernal — ₱10,000
2nd place: John Michael — ₱6,500
3rd place: Rufino Saballa — ₱3,500
Couples Category:
1st place: Anne & Ben — ₱10,000
2nd place: Priscilla & Mark Anthony — ₱6,500 3rd place: Orlando & Mary Joy — ₱3,500
The colorful Best Fancy Dress awards added a brilliant layer of creativity and entertainment to one of Kaogma’s most anticipated outdoor attractions.
Tour De Kaogma: Conquering the roads of CamSur
More than 400 cyclists from various provinces converged for Tour De Kaogma 2026, transforming the scenic roads of CamSur into a battleground of speed and stamina.
Participants competed across Mountain Bike and Road Bike categories, covering challenging routes of 78 kilometers and 73 kilometers, respectively. Riders faced long stretches of road, changing terrain, and intense competition, showcasing the growing popularity of cycling tourism in the region.
Mountain Bike Category
18 Below – Male
1st place: John Paul Samañego – ₱5,000
2nd place: Darryl Olayra – ₱2,500
3rd place: Lester Ariola – ₱1,000
18 Below – Female
1st place: Maricon F. Bustarga – ₱5,000
Open – Male
1st place: Jonel Cosinero – ₱10,000 2nd place: Junel Albar – ₱7,000
3rd place: Genesis Adrian S. Base – ₱5,000
Open – Female
1st place: Jessa Mae Paliza – ₱10,000 2nd place: Janine Munda – ₱7,000 3rd place: Evith Velitario – ₱5,000
Veterans – Male
1st place: Billy Bihag – ₱10,000
2nd place: Bryan Sepnio – ₱7,000 3rd place: Alvin Lucero – ₱5,000
Road Bike Category
18 Below – Male
1st place: Xian Limano – ₱5,000
2nd place: Nathaniel Greg Domo – ₱2,500 3rd place: Dan Amiel Godinez – ₱1,000
18 Below – Female
1st place: Althea Nicole Coronado – ₱5,000 2nd place: Kathleen Rose Quidep – ₱2,500 3rd place: Maria Angel Alcomendas – ₱1,000
Open – Male
1st place: Mark Baruelo – ₱10,000 2nd place: Lorenzo O. Rellosa III – ₱7,000 3rd place: Nathaniel Aquino – ₱5,000
Open – Female
1st place: Maria Luiz Alejado – ₱10,000 2nd place: Angeline Elvira – ₱7,000 3rd place: Anne Rushelle B. Nuñez – ₱5,000
Veterans – Male
1st place: Leonel Dimaano – ₱10,000 2nd place: Alvin Penosa – ₱7,000
3rd place: Benjamin Rañas Sr. – ₱5,000
Veterans – Female
1st place: Melanie Cadar – ₱10,000 2nd place: Susan B. Sanglay – ₱7,000
The race highlighted not only the athletes’ determination but also CamSur’s reputation as a destination for outdoor recreation and cycling tourism.
CamSur Pickleball Kaogma Open: Pickleball takes center stage
Among the sporting highlights, one competition stood out as a historic milestone for the festival—the first-ever CamSur Pickleball Kaogma Open Tournament hosted by the CamSur Pickleball Club.
For two action-packed days, players from various skill levels gathered to compete across nine categories, marking a significant step in the growth of pickleball in the province. As one of the world’s fastest-growing sports, pickleball combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, attracting both seasoned athletes and newcomers alike.
Participants praised the province’s world-class indoor courts and facilities, with first-time competitors expressing excitement over experiencing a professional playing environment.
Official Results:
Novice Men’s Doubles
Champion: Roosevelt Catapang & Jan Frinz Ramores — ₱10,000
1st Runner-Up: Roderick Jaes Bigay & PJ Aba — ₱7,500
2nd Runner-Up: Carl Manjares & Dominic Manjares — ₱5,000
Novice Mixed Doubles
Champion: Dessiree Ramores & Jan Frinz Ramores — ₱10,000
1st Runner-Up: Carl Manjares & Dina Abella — ₱7,500
2nd Runner-Up: Brian Gabriel Buenaobra & Laurice Castillo — ₱5,000
Novice Women’s Doubles
Champion: Cnynna Pornette & Julie Alano — ₱10,000
1st Runner-Up: Janice Garcia & Lendsiy Moreno — ₱7,500
2nd Runner-Up: Jennifer Floresca & Laurice Castillo — ₱5,000
Intermediate Men’s Doubles
Champion: Jerome Taller & Renz Vosotros — ₱20,000
1st Runner-Up: Arkhemedes Garcia & Harrisson Cardenas — ₱15,000
2nd Runner-Up: Owen Brian Aldenese & Roger Taller — ₱10,000
Intermediate Mixed Doubles
Champion: Jerome Taller & Raiza Mae Taller — ₱20,000
1st Runner-Up: Risca Espos & Roggen Espos — ₱15,000
2nd Runner-Up: Marlanne Rose Brasola & Ray Allen Taller — ₱10,000
Advanced Mixed Doubles
Champion: Marlon Alcantara & Monica Banares — ₱30,000
1st Runner-Up: Lorenzo Zamudio Pascual & Joy Callo — ₱25,000
2nd Runner-Up: Raiza Taller & Christian Taller — ₱20,000
Advanced Men’s Doubles
Champion: CK Marcelino & Shanemark Matamorosa — ₱30,000
1st Runner-Up: Kurt Molina & Mark Luna — ₱25,000
2nd Runner-Up: Enrico Salcedo & Marlon Alcantara — ₱20,000
Advanced Women’s Doubles
Champion: Monica Banares & Romabel Tabernilla — ₱30,000
1st Runner-Up: Patricia Lukban & Yienna Akahira — ₱25,000
2nd Runner-Up: Hannah Destacamento & Nicole Sayno — ₱20,000
Open Women’s Singles
Champion: Romabel — ₱20,000
1st Runner-Up: Nicole Sayno — ₱15,000
2nd Runner-Up: Yienna Akihira — ₱12,000
The inaugural tournament symbolized the beginning of a new chapter in CamSur’s sporting landscape, opening doors for future competitions and nurturing a growing community of pickleball enthusiasts.
The roaring success of these athletic events proves that sports have become vital to the festival’s identity. Beyond the medals and trophies, these competitions foster camaraderie, promote healthy lifestyles, and give Camarinenses of all ages a platform to discover their true potential.
Kaogmahan Street Dance: Where culture comes alive
Aside from athletic feats, Kaogma Festival 2026 served as a grand showcase for the unparallelled creativity, talent, wit, and skill of local performers.
The streets came alive on May 26, as nine contingents painted the opening of Kaogma Festival 2026 with color, pride, and the rich cultural heritage of CamSur. Thunderous drumbeats echoed through the air as performers moved with passion and precision, each step telling a story of tradition, unity, and the true essence of “kaogma”.
Among them, members of Tribu Parauma pushed through countless practice sessions under far from ideal conditions, making do with whatever space and resources they could find. Every limitation was met with resourcefulness, and every setback was answered with determination. All of it, they said, was in pursuit of one goal: to bring home a trophy.
“Pinagkasya lang po namin ‘yung resources na meron kami,” one member shared, reflecting on the challenging journey that led them to the Kaogma Festival stage.
For them, the experience was about far more than taking home a prize. Performing at Kaogma—which they regard as the grandest festival in the Bicol region— was a definitive, once-in a-lifetime moment.
Official Results:
Champion: Baao Simurai Cultural Group – ₱500,000
2nd Place: Nabua Cultural Dancers – ₱250,000
3rd Place: Tribu Parauma – ₱150,000
Special Awards:
Best in Costume and Props: Baao Simurai Cultural Group – ₱50,000
Best in Musicality: Baao Simurai Cultural Group – ₱50,000
Best Festival Queen: Baao Simurai Cultural Group – ₱50,000
The Big V: Rise of the Oragons
CamSur has always been a province of “Oragons” — and Kaogma gave them the perfect stage to prove it. Out of hundreds of hopeful auditionees, only ten earned their place in the Grand Finals. Powerful vocals, deeply moving performances, and unforgettable moments filled the air. In the end, one voice rose above the rest, claiming the ultimate title and reminding the world that Bicolano passion and artistry are truly something to behold.
Official Results:
Champion: Reshen Serdan – ₱150,000
1st Runner-Up: Hannah Marie Bacera – ₱80,000
2nd Runner-Up: Jed Carl Andrew Onoya – ₱50,000
3rd Runner-Up: Jhessa Nantes – ₱20,000
Miss Kaogma Philippines: Made for the crown
History was made as the first-ever Miss Kaogma Philippines 2026 made its grand debut at the Hottest Festival in the World. More than a traditional pageant, it was a celebration of grace, wit, and confidence—unfolding through a series of compelling rounds that tested each candidate’s poise and personality.
From the sharp preliminary interviews and stunning festival costume competition to the dazzling swimsuit and evening gown rounds, every moment was spectacular. Among 18 radiant candidates, five queens ultimately stepped into the spotlight to claim their crowns.
Official Results:
Miss Kaogma Philippines 2026: Reynaleen D. Praferosa – ₱1,000,000
Miss Camarines Sur 2026: Kristine Margaret G. Odoño – ₱500,000
Miss Kaogma PH Tourism 2026: Liezl Anne B. Iñigo – ₱150,000
Miss Kaogma PH 2026 1st Runner-Up: Mikki Angela B. Barcela – ₱100,000
Miss Kaogma PH 2026 2nd Runner-Up: Iya Lester R. Bober – ₱75,000
Special Awards:
Ms. Congeniality – Ramona Prellegera
Ms. Photogenic – Mikki Angela Barcela
Best Kaogma Festival Costume Designer – Jerome Villanueva (worn by Reynaleen Praferosa) Best Evening Gown Designer – Jomarie Cielo (worn by Mikki Angela Barcela) Ms. Anaiah 2026 – Reynaleen Praferosa
Best in Kaogma Festival Costume – Lisa Mae General
Best in Swimsuit – Reynaleen Praferosa
Best in Evening Gown – Iya Lester Bober
Battle of the Bands: Where legends are made
“Banda” — a single word that carries immense weight, spirit, and soul. This year’s Battle of the Bands brought that energy to life as competing rock groups poured their hearts into every beat, guitar riff, and passionate note. From a wave of hopeful auditionees, only ten bands advanced to the finals. When the last chord faded into the night, it was “The Wave” that stood victorious.
For Retro Vibes vocalist Hannah Marie Bacera, landing third place was a massive triumph — it was the hard-earned reward for every stolen hour of rehearsal and every sacrifice made to show up despite the odds. She looked back on the months leading up to the competition with a mix of relief and pride, recalling how the band refused to let mismatched schedules silence their music.
“Kahit hindi nagma-match ‘yung schedule namin, once na may practice, nagpa-practice talaga po kami. Kasi hindi po talaga namin sinasayang ‘yung oras namin sa pag-eensayo kahit kakaunti lamang po ang araw ng practice namin,” she said.
Retro Vibes did not get there alone. Hannah extended her deepest gratitude to their sponsors and supporters whose belief became fuel for their perseverance. She also thanked the Provincial Government of Camarines Sur for providing local artists with a world-class platform to be heard, and a reason to keep playing.
Official Results:
Grand Champion: The Wave – ₱250,000
2nd Place: Daluyan – ₱150,000
3rd Place: Retro Vibes – ₱100,000
Special Awards:
Best Vocalist: Retro Vibes – ₱5,000
Best Guitarist: Charvels Rock – ₱5,000
Best Drummer: 4th Corner – ₱5,000
Best Keyboardist: The Wave – ₱5,000
Best Bassist: Daluyan – ₱5,000
Dance Revo: Rhythm of Kaogma
The competition in this year’s Dance Revo was far more than a battle of steps and sequences — it was a breathtaking display of storytelling through movement and rhythm. Each team brought a unique identity to the stage, blending technique with emotion, transforming every routine into a masterpiece.
Triumph rarely comes without struggle, and for Rinconadanz of Iriga City, their road to the grand championship title was paved with injuries, incomplete rehearsals, and moments of doubt.
“Meron pong time na hindi po kami nabubuo, to the point na meron na pong nagba-back out dahil po hindi po nag-a-align ‘yung mga schedules nila pero tina-try pa din po namin na makompleto and ilaban po talaga yung hanggang sa makaraos po ‘yung Dance Revolution,” a crew member recalled.
Through it all, Rinconadanz held on—and won.
Official Results:
Grand Champion: Rinconadanz – ₱250,000
1st Place: Supreme Motion – ₱150,000
2nd Place: Type 1 Beat – ₱100,000
Throughout the festivities, CamSur Uptown served as the beating heart of the celebrations, hosting some of the festival’s most anticipated events under its iconic landmarks.
Ultimately, Kaogma Festival 2026 proved to be far more than a celebration. It was a profound testament to the unyielding spirit of CamSur—a grand monument to the passion, unity, and soul of all Camarinenses. Kaogma is, and will always be, a festival of the people, for the people.
This event is made possible by Kaogma Festival 2026.
