“Tanauan as One, Walang Maiiwan” has always been the mantra of Mayor Sonny Perez Collantes, and the spirit of unity was brought to life as clusters from across the city performed as one community during the 2026 Tan-a-we Festival Court Dance Competition at Plaza Mabini, held as part of the celebration of the 25th Cityhood Anniversary of Tanauan.
Through well-choreographed movements, vibrant costumes, grand and elaborate props, and creative storytelling, participating clusters delivered performances that highlighted the shared history, culture, and identity of the Tanaueños.
Six clusters representing various barangays participated in the competition, wherein each of them presented different kinds of performances depicting the rich heritage and symbols of Tanauan—from its agricultural roots, to putting the spotlight on tawilis, to local traditions, to important historical figures like Apolinario Mabini and Jose P. Laurel, and well-known landmarks in the city particularly the St. John the Evangelist Parish Church, Taal Volcano, and J Castles.
Participating clusters included CLUSTER 1, composed of Poblacion 1-7 and Sambat; CLUSTER 2 which includes Bagumbayan, Tinurik, Mabini, Bagbag, Hidalgo, Banjo East, Banjo West, and Darasa; CLUSTER 3, made up of Natatas, Balele, Maboot, Ma. Paz, Wawa, Janopol Oriental, Janopol Occidental, and Gonzales; CLUSTER 4, represented by Santor, Talaga, Banadero, Ambulong, Bilogbilog, and Maugat; CLUSTER 5, consisting of Pagaspas, Cale, Trapiche, Sala, Pantay Bata, Pantay Matanda, Ulango, and Laurel; and CLUSTER 6, composed of Altura Matanda, Altura Bata, Altura South, Montaña, Sulpoc, Suplang, Malaking Pulo, and Santol.
In his message, Councilor Uruga underscored how dance reflects the character and talent of the people of Tanauan, noting that the Tan-a-we Festival serves as an opportunity for performers to showcase their qualities and skills through dance while sharing their talents and expressing pride in the city.
Mayor Collantes also emphasized that the performances symbolized more than choreography and costume, but the unity of the city’s communities.
“Hindi lamang ito paligsahan ng galaw, ritmo, at kasuotan. Ito’y pagpapakita ng ating kasaysayan, pagkakaisa, at pagmamahal sa lungsod.”
He also added that every movement on stage reflected the strength and vitality of the entire city.
“Ang bawat indak at kumpas ng inyong mga kamay ay sumisimbolo ng lakas at sigla ng buong Tanauan. Through your performances, you remind us that our city is not only growing in progress but also rich in culture and tradition.”
Mayor Collantes further highlighted that the celebration coincides with the continued progress of Tanauan as a 1st Class City in Batangas.
“As we celebrate 25 years of Tanauan as a city, let us remember that this milestone is the result of the hard work, unity, and resilience of every Tanaueño. From our humble beginnings to the progressive city that we are today, we continue to move forward, just like the dances you will see tonight—full of energy, creativity, and hope for a better future.”
Cluster 1 was declared Champion, receiving a P100,000 cash prize and plaque. Cluster 4 secured the 1st Runner-Up title with P80,000 and a plaque, while Cluster 3 finished as 2nd Runner-Up, receiving P60,000 and a plaque.
The Tan-a-we Festival Court Dance Competition highlighted how dance can unite communities and express the pride and identity of the Tanaueño people.
“Let us celebrate the diversity and unity of our communities. Because today, we are not just six clusters, we are One Tanauan, Walang Maiiwan,” Mayor Collantes emphasized.
Through powerful movements and shared stories on stage, the people of Tanauan proved anew that while the city is composed of 46 barangays, it continues to move forward in a single rhythm—always united as one.