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CALINOG, Iloilo: Mayor Salvador Divinagracia Jr. of
Calinog , called on the public to help preserve the culture and
traditions of the Panay Bukidnon because they serve as asset of the
town, reported the Philippine News Agency.
Calinog, a central town of Iloilo,
is home to indigenous people known as Panay Bukidnon—Halawudnon.
They live in three far-flung barangays of Calinog, namely, Garangan,
Masaroy and Agcalaga or GMA barangays.
This group of indigenous people
has its own culture different from the lowlanders.
On Friday, the Halawudnon awed
the public with their portrayal of the Binanog Dance, a dance that
imitates the movement of binanog, a species of hawk or locally known
as dapay, coupled with rhythmic sounds produced from bamboo sticks
and gongs.
Dancers were clad in supa
(traditional costume) and a scarf.
This made them distinct from
other indigenous groups.
The activity was one of the
highlights of the Panubok 2, a showcase of the culture and tradition
of the Panay Bukidnons from Calinog and Tapaz, Capiz.
Other activities were costume
embroidery exhibit, workshop and competition and epic chanting.
It was first held in Tapaz, Capiz
two years ago.
Divinagracia said indigenous
people’s culture and traditions date back to the ancient times
when they lived on upland areas and fed themselves with what was
available in their community.
Indigenous people have an eye for
art and a heart for epic chanting, he said.
Older members of the indigenous
community also adorn their bodies with tattoos such as stars, moon
and sun. They also make musical instruments from bamboo such as
tulali or flute.
Divinagracia said the municipal
government has been very supportive of any plans in keeping with the
traditions and culture of the indigenous people.
The support extended by the
municipal government in holding the Panubok 2 is a manifestation of
their full support to the Halawudnons, said Divinagracia.
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