In many parts of the country, festivals are often viewed simply as colorful celebrations, tradition, and local pride. But in the Province of Sultan Kudarat headed by Governor Datu Pax Ali Mangudadatu, the Kalimudan Festival has evolved into something much bigger: a model of how culture and governance can work together to create economic opportunity and strengthen communities.

As mayor of San Juan, I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand how the province transformed its rich cultural heritage into a platform for tourism, investment, and inclusive development. What stood out most was not only the scale of the celebration, but also the impact it created for the people.

Reports from last year’s Kalimudan Festival showed that the event attracted an estimated 1.2 million visitors and generated more than ₱200 million in economic activity from an initial investment of around ₱10 million. Beyond the impressive numbers, however, the true success of the festival was reflected in how it benefited local communities, from small business owners and market vendors to transport workers, tourism enterprises, and local farmers.

This is why Kalimudan deserves national attention.

It reminds us that festivals are not merely occasions for celebration. When supported by visionary leadership and strategic planning, they can become engines of economic growth and community empowerment.

Last year’s theme, “The World Meets in SK,” perfectly captured this vision. Sultan Kudarat’s lone city and its municipalities showcased world-inspired exhibits while proudly preserving their own local identity and traditions. The festival featured cultural presentations, trade fairs, tourism promotions, concerts, sports events, and even the International Coffee Innovation Summit, which highlighted Sultan Kudarat’s growing agricultural potential.

More importantly, the province demonstrated that local culture itself can become a competitive advantage.

This is an important lesson for local government units across the country. As National President of the League of Cities of the Philippines, I strongly believe that nation-building becomes more effective when local governments learn from one another. Every province, city, and municipality has experiences, innovations, and best practices that can help us grow even more as LGUs.

This spirit of cooperation became even more meaningful through the Sisterhood Agreement signed between San Juan City and the Province of Sultan Kudarat together with Governor Pax Ali Mangudadatu, Vice Governor Prince Raden Sakaluran, provincial board members and mayors including Tacurong City Mayor Lina Montilla who is one of the members of the League of Cities of the Philippines.

During our visit, we also met Sultan Kudarat 2nd District Representative, Congresswoman Bella Suansing and former TESDA Secretary and former Sultan Kudarat Governor Suharto Mangudadatu. These engagements further strengthen linkage among leaders and open more opportunities for collaboration, future initiatives, and partnerships that can bring long-term value and opportunities for growth.

More than a ceremonial signing, this sisterhood agreement reflects a shared commitment to advancing good governance, tourism, culture, and sustainable development for the benefit of both communities.

San Juan’s progress has been driven by responsive governance and investments in healthcare, education, infrastructure, technology, and social services. Sultan Kudarat, meanwhile, is grounded in a strong agricultural economy supported by coffee, rice, corn, coconut, and other key crops, along with a growing agri-based livelihood sector. It is also shaped by a diverse cultural heritage and close-knit local communities that reflect its identity and resilience, alongside ongoing improvements in infrastructure and local development initiatives.

By working together, both local governments gain opportunities to exchange ideas and build stronger programs for their people.

As president of the Metro Manila Council, I believe partnerships like this help build stronger bridges between Metro Manila and Mindanao. Our country moves forward faster when regions work together rather than grow separately.

In many ways, that is precisely what Kalimudan represents.

The word “Kalimudan” means “coming together,” a principle that lies at the very heart of nation-building. At a time when collaboration is more important than ever, the festival serves as a reminder that progress becomes more meaningful when communities move forward together.

I extend my congratulations to Governor Datu Pax Ali Mangudadatu, the Provincial Government of Sultan Kudarat, and the people of the province for mounting a truly world-class festival. I want all of you to know that I was really very impressed by what I saw and experienced.

Kalimudan has shown that culture does more than preserve identity and inspire pride. It can also create opportunities, strengthen local economies, and unite communities toward a shared vision of progress.

Mabuhay, Sultan Kudarat. See you again for this year’s Kalimudan Festival.