Kagay-anon duos take center stage at Kanta Ta Bai Season 4

The stage at the Centrio Ayala Mall Event Center came alive with music as Kanta Ta Bai Season 4 brought together 10 duets from different barangays for the Inter-Barangay Vocal Duet Competition on August 9.

An initiative of Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez in partnership with the Office of Congressman Rufus Rodriguez, the competition provided a platform for local singers to showcase their talent while celebrating the musical culture of Cagayan de Oro.

Kanta Ta Bai has featured a different musical format in each season. It began with a songwriting competition in Season 1, followed by the Inter-Barangay Vocal Solo Competition in Season 2 and the Battle of the Bands in Season 3. For its fourth season, the competition highlighted the voices of duos, putting their harmony, musicality, and stage presence to the test.

Taking the top spot was Barangay Bugo, represented by Anielyn I. Guibone and Aljon Love I. Guibone, who received a trophy and ₱25,000. Barangay 22, represented by Randy Mortes and Irben Cabilao, placed second and received a trophy and ₱19,000, while Barangay Canitoan, represented by Millen Grace A. Bagaporo and Joel D. Gonzales, secured third place with a trophy and ₱13,000.

The seven other competing duets also received ₱7,000 consolation prizes, recognizing the talent and effort they brought to the competition.

As the author of the proposed Original Kagay-anon Music Ordinance and an advocate for local talents, VM Bebot has championed efforts to preserve and showcase the city's musical heritage, empower homegrown artists, and strengthen music as part of Cagayan de Oro's cultural identity.

Through Kanta Ta Bai, local singers continue to find a stage where their talent can be heard, celebrated, and shared with fellow Kagay-anons. (SPE/SP)