On November 9, 2024, the province of Nueva Vizcaya marked Indigenous People’s month with a grand celebration at the Carlos M. Padilla Convention Center, Capitol Compound in Bayombong, carrying the theme: “Mga Katutubo at Katutubong Dunong: Pahalagahan, Pangalagaan, Parangalan” (Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous Knowledge: Value, Protect, Honor). The event showcased the province’s rich cultural diversity and featured the significant contributions of its indigenous communities.
A sprightly parade of attires featuring the traditional clothing and crafts of various indigenous groups in the province kicked off the day’s festivities. Representatives from multiple ethnic groups, including the Bugkalot of Alfonso Castañeda, Dupax del Sur, Dupax del Norte, Kasibu, Applai Balangao of Kasibu, Isinay of Bambang, Isinay of Dupax del Sur, Isinay of Aritao, Ayangan of Solano, Ayangan of Villaverde, Gaddang of Bagabag, Gaddang of Solano, I’wak of Kayapa, and Kalanguya of Sta. Fe, proudly presented themselves and displayed their colorful and intricately designed traditional clothings. Their participation underscored the enduring cultural heritage of the province’s indigenous peoples.
The event was graced by a number of distinguished local and national leaders. Delivering his message, Gov. Atty. Jose “Jing” V. Gambito urged the province to honor and protect the rich indigenous heritage that has been passed down through generations. He emphasized the importance of preserving indigenous cultures and knowledge as a means of ensuring their survival and relevance in modern society.
“This celebration is a reminder of the invaluable contributions of our indigenous communities. It is also a call to action for the younger generation to continue the traditions and values that have been entrusted to us,” Gov. Gambito said.
Senator Robinhood C. Padilla, who also attended the event, echoed Gov. Gambito’s view, calling for greater unity and understanding between indigenous and non-indigenous communities. He emphasized the need for stronger support for the rights and welfare of indigenous peoples across the country.
“We must continue to foster unity and respect for our indigenous brothers and sisters. Their culture and knowledge are an integral part of our national identity,” Sen. Padilla stated.
The event was also attended by Mrs. Ruth R. Padilla, Chairperson of the Cagayan Valley Regional Tourism Council, along with provincial officials, including Board Members Hon. Patricio “PatPat” Dumlao Jr., Hon. Eunice Galima-Gambol, Hon. Elma Pinao-an Lejao and Hon. Pablo P. Kindot. Provincial Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) Hon. Castillo “Togo” B. Tidang Jr., and Provincial Director of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Engr. Shelly Joy Ruth S. Calata were also in attendance, providing their support for the continued preservation of indigenous culture and traditions.
The event featured a series of cultural performances and traditional dances, with local artisans showcasing their handwoven fabrics, handcrafted jewelry, and other traditional crafts. These exhibits provided attendees with a deeper appreciation of indigenous peoples’ ways of life, as well as the artistic skills that have been passed down through generations.
“This celebration is more than just an event. It is a call for all of us to respect and protect the culture and wisdom of our indigenous communities,” said Engr. Calata, stressing the commitment of the NCIP and the provincial government to support indigenous peoples’ rights and welfare.
Through these efforts, the Provincial Government of Nueva Vizcaya, under Gov. Gambito’s leadership, seeks to ensure that the traditions, languages, and wisdom of the province’s indigenous peoples are preserved and passed on to future generations. The event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural diversity, unity, and respect for all people, and stressed the collective responsibility of both indigenous and non-indigenous communities in safeguarding the province’s rich heritage.
The celebration of Indigenous People’s month not only recognized the immense value of indigenous cultures but also reinforced the need for collective efforts to honor, protect, and promote these communities and their traditions, ensuring that their contributions continue to enrich the province for generations to come. #jmcb
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