MANILA, Philippines – Sultan Kudarat marked its 51st founding anniversary in grand style as the province’s vibrant Kalimudan Festival attracted an estimated crowd of 200,000. Among the highlights was the presence of senatorial candidate Chavit Singson, who received a warm and enthusiastic welcome from local officials and attendees alike.
The festival was a sensory delight, with electrifying performances by Sponge Cola, Vice Ganda, James Reid, Paolo Avelino, and DJ Ron Poe adding energy to the celebration. But it wasn’t just the entertainment that captivated the audience—Singson’s humorous anecdotes and down-to-earth approach made him a crowd favorite.
Local leaders, including Governor Datu Pax Ali Sangki Mangudadatu, expressed their full support for Singson’s senatorial bid, emphasizing his dedication to the people of Sultan Kudarat. “His presence is inspirational not only for the people of Sultan Kudarat but of course all of us local leaders,” Mangudadatu said. “They heard his advocacies and felt his love for the province of Sultan Kudarat, especially today on our 51st founding anniversary.”
This isn’t the first time Singson has visited Sultan Kudarat, and his connection with the province continues to grow. Mangudadatu further remarked, “We will push and support for his senatorial bid as we sincerely believe that he feels that he has found a family here. Chavit Singson, you are part of our province.”
Singson’s forward-thinking initiatives resonated deeply with the audience and local officials alike. His Banko ng Masa program, which aims to provide every Filipino with access to bank accounts and credit cards in partnership with local governments, was lauded as a step toward financial inclusivity.
READ: Chavit Singson, Isko Moreno endorse each other’s candidacies in 2025 polls
The proposal for Universal Basic Income, known as the “Chavit 500,” also drew widespread support. Under this program, Filipinos aged 18 and above earning minimum wage or less would receive ₱500 monthly for life, a bold initiative aimed at uplifting the nation’s poorest sectors.
As the festival came to a close, the people of Sultan Kudarat were left with a renewed sense of hope and excitement for the future. Singson’s presence was not just a celebration of the province’s history but a promising look forward. The Kalimudan Festival will be remembered not only for its festivities but for the strong connections forged between a senatorial candidate and a province ready to embrace change.
Sultan Kudarat’s 51st anniversary proved to be more than just a milestone, it was a testament to unity, cultural pride, and a shared vision for progress.