The program commenced with a traditional prayer called 'Palanga,' a ritual led by Bontoc elders, including former Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) George Luis Fakat Jr., to ensure the safe arrival and departure of visitors joining the celebration.
There were various cultural performances including playing of the flute locally called “kaleleng”.
OIC Provincial Tourism Officer Angel Baybay representing Governor Bonifacio C. Lacwasan Jr., conveyed the purposes of the celebration -to celebrate being IP members, to commemorate the passing of the IPRA law that stipulated the special rights and duties of IPs and to showcase
“We are here today to reflect, celebrate and give meaning to our being a member of an indigenous group. We are here to reflect on our rich historical past. Secondly, we are here to commemorate the 26th year since the passing of the IPRA Law. Lastly, we are here to celebrate. We are here to show to the world the richness of our culture and traditions,” he said.
He though reminded that in celebrating, one must not forget the issues and challenges affecting the indigenous communities.
Congressman Maximo Dalog Jr., represented by Atty. Cyphrine Dalog, emphasized the importance of IPs safeguarding and preserving their cultural heritage.
“As IPs, let us continue to be active in safeguarding and enshrining our cultural heritage by being part of sustainable development and history as our country’s source of social cohesion and collective pride,” she said.
Dalog urged everyone in sustaining and enhancing our cultural assets to foster creativity and innovation for the socio-economic growth of the province.
Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Edna Lyn Silverio and Engr. Franklin Kabluyen, representing District Engineer Alberto N. Gahid of the Department of Public Works and Highways - Mountain Province, also delivered messages.
Meanwhile, NCIP Regional Director Atty. Atanacio D. Addog emphasized on the duties and responsibilities of IPMRs especially on the conservation and protection of natural resources within the ancestral domains.
The celebration was also highlighted with lectures on forest resource utilization and sustainable indigenous forest resource management and signing of the resolution for the proper documentation of the Indigenous Knowledge, Systems and Practices, and the (JDP/VJLT-PIA CAR, Mt. Province)
