Kalibo’s Drum and Lyre Tradition Marches On at 455th Foundation Day Celebration

Kalibo’s Drum and Lyre Tradition Marches On at 455th Foundation Day Celebration
By Maria Solita Zaldivar-Guzman

The grounds of Kalibo Pastrana Park once again resonated with vibrant rhythms, colorful performances, and school spirit as the Battle of Drums and Lyre Corps 2026 took center stage on November 6, as part of the celebration of the 455th Kalibo Foundation Day.

Now in its fourth year, the annual competition continues to bring together participating schools in a showcase of musicality, discipline, creativity, and teamwork, keeping alive a cherished tradition that has become one of the highlights of Kalibo’s Foundation Day festivities.

In his message, Sangguniang Bayan Member Matt Aaron P. Guzman, the principal proponent of the ordinance institutionalizing the event, described the occasion as a full-circle moment. Having been a lyreman during his elementary years, he shared how meaningful it was to see the activity continue through an initiative he helped establish as a legislator.

The Battle of Drums and Lyre Corps continues to thrive through the support of Mayor Juris Bautista Sucro, whose administration has sustained the annual competition since its establishment. Spearheaded by the Tourism and Cultural Arts Division under the leadership of Development Management Officer III Rhea Rose E. Meren and Tourism Operations Officer I Anna Ruth R. Isada, the event has grown over the years, drawing increased participation from schools and offering higher prize money to contestants.

Beyond the competition, the Battle of Drums and Lyre Corps celebrates the dedication of students, teachers, parents, and school communities. Every performance reflects countless hours of preparation, discipline, and teamwork, while strengthening camaraderie and deepening school pride among Kalibonhons.

This year’s competition recognized the following winners:

ELEMENTARY CATEGORY
Champion: Kalibo Pilot Elementary School
1st Runner-up: Andagaw Elementary School
2nd Runner-up: Infant Jesus Academy
3rd Runner-up: Linabuan Norte Elementary School

SECONDARY CATEGORY
Champion: Aklan National High School for Arts and Trades
1st Runner-up: Regional Science High School for Region VI
2nd Runner-up: Aklan Catholic College
3rd Runner-up: Infant Jesus Academy

Kalibo Pilot Elementary School dominated the elementary category, successfully defending its championship title for a back-to-back victory while sweeping all three special awards. The school took home Best in Costume, Best in Musicality, and Best in Fancy Drills, capping off an impressive performance in this year’s competition.

Meanwhile, in the secondary category, Aklan National High School for Arts and Trades claimed the overall championship, securing its grand slam victory. The school also swept the special awards for Best in Musicality and Best in Fancy Drills, while Regional Science High School for Region VI once again took home Best in Costume.

As the competition enters its fourth year, the Battle of Drums and Lyre Corps demonstrates how a meaningful tradition can flourish through community support and sustained commitment. More than a showcase of musical talent, it stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Kalibo’s youth and the generations brought together by music, discipline, and hometown pride.