The municipality of Bontoc in  Mountain Province is no stranger in showcasing their strength in unity in the face of adversities. From being shattered by raging fires to surviving onslaught of natural disasters, Bontoc has time and time again, rose from it all to be a beacon of resilience.

This resiliency is anchored on what the community calls as ‘Og-ogfo’, a local term for Bayanihan.

Last December 30, 2023, the local government unit of Bontoc received a report of a missing individual in the person of Allan “Wangho” Fagsao.

The LGU immediately responded to the report using all possible resources from utilizing social media platforms for awareness, and organizing search parties.

As the news spread, the community's response was immediate with individuals from all walks of life coming forward to offer their support, turning an ordinary neighborhood into a united force with a common purpose.

The LGU, together with the community,  harnessed their collective strength to amplify the search efforts. Search and rescue teams were not only from the Provincial Disaster Risk and Reduction Management Office and the municipal DRRMO. All Bontoc barangays also answered the call of ‘Og-ogfo’, so the search was far and wide.

Volunteers searched relentlessly for nine days as far as Tubo, Abra. 

Employees of the Bontoc local government unit  and community volunteers  joined hands in preparing food for the search and rescue  teams. 

With the unity of the community, and guided with cultural rituals, the  search ended successfully on January 8, 2024  with Allan Fagsao found safe and sound in Sitio Kurayo, barangay Mainit, Bontoc.

The climax of the community's collective efforts  was  the   joyous news of the missing person being found. The reunion was  not just a celebration of a successful search but a testament to the unwavering spirit of ‘Og-ogfo’ that propelled the community forward.

As Fagsao returned home, the community stands united, having proven that in times of crisis, love and solidarity can conquer even the darkest moments. This is yet another testament to the indomitable human spirit and the transformative power of resilience.

Despite facing a myriad of challenges, the community has not only weathered the storm,  but has emerged stronger, more connected, and with a shared sense of purpose.

And through it all, the i-Funtoks (people of Bontoc) will always keep the spirit of ‘Og-ogfo’ alive. (JDP/VJLT-PIA Mountain Province)