BACOLOD City – Barangays 12 and Granada emerged as the top winners of the 2026 Bacolod Chicken Inasal Festival (BCIF), dominating the festival’s highly anticipated Street Dance and Arena Dance competitions held during the three-day celebration of Bacolod’s iconic chicken inasal.
Barangay 12 clinched the championship in the Street Dance Competition, while Barangay Granada topped the Arena Dance Competition, delivering standout performances that captivated judges and festivalgoers alike.
In the Street Dance category, Barangay 12 secured first place, followed by Barangay Granada in second and Barangay Estefania in third.
Meanwhile, Barangay Granada emerged as champion in the Arena Dance Competition, with Barangay 12 placing second and Barangay Tangub finishing third.
Winning contingents received cash prizes of P20,000 for first place, P15,000 for second place, and P10,000 for third place.
A highlight of this year’s festival was the ASEAN-inspired theme of the Arena Dance Competition, which added an international flavor to the celebration.
Seven barangays showcased performances inspired by the rich and diverse cultures of Southeast Asia through music, costumes, and choreography.
Barangay 12 represented Malaysia, Barangay 3 showcased Singapore, Barangay Sum-ag portrayed Cambodia, Barangay Granada highlighted Timor-Leste, Barangay Estefania featured Brunei, Barangay 2 interpreted Myanmar, and Barangay Tangub represented Thailand.
Festival organizers said the concept was designed to blend Bacolod’s vibrant festival culture with the traditions and heritage of neighboring ASEAN nations, creating a unique platform for cultural exchange through dance and artistic expression.
The festival officially opened on May 29 at Manokan Country in SM City Bacolod, drawing residents, tourists, food enthusiasts, and cultural performers.
This year’s festivities were staged across three major venues: SM City Bacolod, The Upper East–Megaworld, and Ayala Malls Capitol Central.
The grand parade and Arena Dance Competition were held at The Upper East on May 30, while the festival culminated on May 31 with the Chicken Inasal Cook-Off at Ayala Malls Capitol Central, where chefs and food enthusiasts showcased their own interpretations of Bacolod’s famous grilled chicken dish.
During the festival opening, Mayor Greg Gasataya revealed that Bacolod City has formally submitted its application to join the UNESCO Creative Cities Network under the Gastronomy category for 2027.
The mayor said Bacolod Chicken Inasal is being highlighted as a key component of the city’s bid, reflecting its cultural significance and global appeal.
Gasataya added that festivals such as the BCIF help promote local businesses, particularly vendors and tenants at Manokan Country, while attracting tourists and strengthening Bacolod’s reputation as a culinary destination.
First launched in 2009, the BCIF has grown into one of the city’s signature celebrations.
This year’s edition carried the theme “InasalCity,” emphasizing Bacolod’s identity as the home of the world-famous chicken inasal, known for its distinct smoky flavor, vibrant marinade, and enduring place in Filipino food culture./PN
