LAGAWE, Ifugao(PIA) - - The people of Mayoyao came together on August 9, 2023 to  celebrate the 13th  Lenong (Peace) Festival in commemoration of  the battle that led to the end of World War II in the country.

With the theme, "A Joyful Celebration of Peace in the aftermath of the Pandemic,” the event held the Mayoyao Ridge (Mt. Nagchajan), was highlighted with  wreath laying, 21 Gun Salute and playing of  taps, musical rendition  and cultural presentations.

Guest speaker Chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines General Romeo Brawner, Jr represented by 503rd Infantry Brigade Commander Brigadier General Santiago Enginco, lauded the people of Mayoyao and  the province for celebrating the  Lenong Peace Festival to strengthen unity and harmony towards a progressive municipality. 

“The Lenong Peace Festival reminds us of our strength and resilience and the bravery and sacrifices of Filipino soldiers and Mayoyao people who join the fight for liberation.  It is a celebration of our shared culture and common humanity. It is time for us to unite and affirm our commitment to peace,” Brawner said.

 The activity also showcases the distinct cultural and traditions of Mayoyao and provides the people of the province a strong grasp of their roots and preserve their heritage, he added.

Brawner  also stressed   that the AFP strongly believes that strengthening one’s identity does a lot for a person. It shall empower the individual to stand for the truth and not swayed by false ideologies nor being a subject for exploitation.

“Again I thank and congratulate the peace loving people of Mayoyao for making the AFP as part of this meaningful celebration. We wish you much success and merriment on this festivity,” he stated.

Mayor Jimmy Padchanan, Jr. thanked the Philippine Historical Institute  for putting a historical marker at Mount Nagchajan to authenticate and validate the historical value of what is described as the fiercest battle in the province called the “Battle of Mayoyao Ridge.”

Based on historical accounts, Mount Nagchajan in Mayoyao  was the  final battleground   between the Japanese forces and the combined Filipino and American soldiers from July 25 to August 9, 1945   before General Tomoyuki Yamashita surrendered in Kiangan town on September 2, 2945 ending the Japanese occupation of the Philippines in World War II.    

The provincial government institutionalized the   conduct of Lenong   Festival every August 9     under Provincial Ordinance No. 29, Series 2013.

The Department of Tourism also concreted the access road going to Mt. Nagchajan plaza.(JDP/MBL-PIA CAR, Ifugao)