Bislig has added a second cash reward program for residents who win outside the city, this time for competitions that are not run by DepEd. City Ordinance No. 2026-25, cited as the "Bisliganon Cultural, Artistry and Other Skills Incentives Ordinance," pays winners of beauty pageants, singing, dancing, cultural, academic and technical skills competitions.
When it was passed
The Sangguniang Panlungsod enacted it on August 25, 2026, during its 58th regular session. Mayor Florencio C. Garay approved it on September 7, 2026, and it took effect immediately. It was authored by Councilor Alfredo J. Carmelo and sponsored by Councilors Apolio C. Alvar and Jonas A. Cacayan, Indigenous Peoples Representative Florio S. Josafat, Jr., SK Federation President Ana Mae M. Agusa, and Vice Mayor Conrad C. Cejoco.
It complements Ordinance No. 2026-20, passed earlier in August, which covers cash incentives for DepEd and international sports and academic competitions.
Who qualifies
A "Bisliganon" under the ordinance is a Filipino citizen born in Bislig, or a bona fide resident for at least one year before the competition. Individuals and groups qualify if they win a major award, defined as champion, first runner-up or second runner-up.
The ordinance covers four categories:
- Beauty pageants, including Miss Universe Philippines, Binibining Pilipinas, Mutya ng Pilipinas and their regional or provincial counterparts.
- Performing arts, such as national or international singing contests, dance championships and choral competitions.
- Cultural and creative events, including theater, visual arts and literary competitions recognized by government agencies or institutions such as the NCCA.
- Academic, technical and skills competitions organized or recognized by TESDA, CHED, government agencies, schools or other recognized organizations.
How much
| Level | Rank | Individual | Group |
|---|---|---|---|
| International | Champion | P100,000 | P150,000 |
| International | 1st Runner-Up | P75,000 | P100,000 |
| International | 2nd Runner-Up | P50,000 | P75,000 |
| National | Champion | P50,000 | P75,000 |
| National | 1st Runner-Up | P30,000 | P50,000 |
| National | 2nd Runner-Up | P20,000 | P30,000 |
| Regional/Provincial | Champion | P15,000 | P25,000 |
The published schedule lists only the champion at the regional or provincial level. All payments are subject to available funds.
Recognition beyond cash
Winners also receive a commendation resolution from the Sangguniang Panlungsod and a "Gawad Bisliganon" plaque presented at a flag-raising ceremony or city event. The City Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office may also organize a homecoming parade.
How to claim
Awardees must file with the City Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office within 60 calendar days after the event. They need to submit:
- Proof of residency, such as a barangay certificate, voter's ID or other government ID.
- An official certificate of award issued by the organizers.
- The official program, promotional materials or other documents showing the competition is legitimate.
An evaluation committee made up of the City Mayor as chair, the chair of the Sangguniang Panlungsod Committee on Education and Culture, and the City Tourism and Cultural Affairs Officer reviews each application.
Funding
The city set aside P500,000 from its General Fund for the first year. After that, the program is to be included automatically in the city's annual budget.
In its whereas clauses, the council described winning Bisliganon as cultural ambassadors who help promote local tourism and inspire young people in the city.
Source: City of Bislig, Sangguniang Panlungsod Ordinance No. 2026-25 (enacted August 25, 2026; approved September 7, 2026), published on the city's Ordinances 2026 page at bislig.gov.ph.