PGLU CELEBRATES IP MONTH THROUGH “BALLAYGI” PROGRAM
By: Joy Ann L. Gurtiza, GPC-LUPTO | Photos By: GPC-LUPTO | Date: October 29, 2021
To acknowledge the achievements and contributions of Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs) of the province, the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) through the La Union Provincial Tourism Office - Culture and Arts Section, joined the nation in celebrating the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) Month through the conduct of the hybrid program BALLAYGI (victory): IP Month 2021 Celebration. Ballaygi has two (2) components, namely TUN-OY (reach out): 2021 PGLU IP Caravan, and TUNOS (being in harmony with): IP Educational Documentary.
Aired on October 29, 2021 via Love La Union Facebook Page, TUN-OY previewed the distribution of health and hygiene kits and ceremonial turn-over of the EPANAW coffee table books produced by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) to the recipient IP communities in the Municipalities of Santol, Burgos and Pugo. Mayors Magno A. Wailan, Priscilla M. Martin, and Robert B. Madarang, Jr., and their respective Indigenous People Mandatory Representatives (IPMRs) Mr. Pablito T. Puclay, Mr. Victor D. Lales, and Ms. Fely C. Angolo graced the events.
In his video message, NCIP Regional Director Dr. Manuel Jaramilla extended his gratitude to the PGLU for its unending support and hard work in preserving indigenous cultures and diversity. Gov. Francisco Emmanuel “Pacoy” R. Ortega III likewise expressed his appreciation to the NCIP being a strong enabling partner and lead advocate in protecting and promoting the interest and well-being of the ICCs/IPs.
On the other hand, an online campaign through a series of social media trivia on Indigenous Knowledge, Systems and Practices (IKSP) was posted through TUNOS. To cap the campaign, an educational documentary involving major IP groups in La Union: Bago of Sudipen, Ibaloi of Tubao, and Kan-kanaey of Burgos will be aired. It shall feature various IKSPs that aim to raise awareness on IPs’ health and wellness practices, including their prevention and coping mechanisms during the CoViD-19 pandemic.
Hybrid celebrations in the middle of the pandemic prove the steadfast conviction of the province, the NCIP, and the IPs and ICCs in protecting and nurturing the community collective IKSPs, strength, and resilience. The PGLU continues to move forward towards a #StrongerLaUnion for everyone, regardless of race and ethnicity.
