BY JOEL C. ESCOL, Managing Editor
BUKIDNON – The preparations for the upcoming ‘Kaamulan Festival’ in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon is ongoing as the host city already posted “bandiritas” at the Kaamulan Grounds, the main venue of the festival.
Workers for the festival have also prepared the different booths which will display long lines of clothing and apparel, festival memorabillas, agriculture products, one of the main sources of income of the general population, indigenous items and souvenirs, and all other available products on display.
The program for this year’s month-long Kaamulan Festival has recently been unveiled. Festivities commence with the Grand Opening on March 23 at the Capitol Grounds in Malaybalay City. Highlighted events throughout the festival span from the Garden Show and Agri Fair (March 23-April 23), the Rodeo Competition (March 23-24), and the Ethnocultural Music Festival (April 7), to Laga Ta Bukidnon (April 13) and the eagerly awaited Street Dancing Competition (April 20).
Kaamulan Festival: A Celebration of Bukidnon’s Cultural Richness
Nestled in the heart of Mindanao, Philippines, lies the province of Bukidnon, renowned for its lush greenery, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultural heritage. At the center of Bukidnon’s cultural tapestry is the Kaamulan Festival, a grand celebration that brings together indigenous tribes in a colorful display of tradition, unity, and festivity.
The Kaamulan Festival is deeply rooted in the customs and beliefs of the indigenous peoples of Bukidnon, primarily the seven hill tribes: the Bukidnon, Higaonon, Talaandig, Manobo, Matigsalug, Tigwahanon, and Umayamnon. It is a time-honored event that pays homage to their ancestral rituals, agricultural practices, and spiritual connections with nature.
The festival typically takes place in March, coinciding with the province’s founding anniversary. It spans several days, filled with a myriad of activities, performances, and cultural showcases. One of the highlights of the festival is the street dancing parade, where tribes adorned in traditional attire, adorned with vibrant hues and intricate designs, parade through the streets, accompanied by rhythmic beats of indigenous music and chants. The pulsating energy and infectious enthusiasm of the performers captivate spectators, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Bukidnon.
Central to the Kaamulan Festival is the concept of “Kaamulan,” which translates to “gathering” or “unity” in the local dialect. It symbolizes the coming together of different tribes, fostering solidarity, harmony, and mutual respect. Through traditional rituals, dances, and rituals, the festival serves as a platform for cultural exchange and preservation, ensuring that age-old traditions are passed down from generation to generation.
During the festival, visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the indigenous way of life through various activities such as traditional games, crafts workshops, and cultural exhibits. They can witness demonstrations of ancient rituals like the “Pamalas” (sacrificial offering) and “Pamalasab” (marriage ceremony), which hold significant cultural and spiritual significance for the indigenous communities.
Moreover, the Kaamulan Festival also showcases the province’s agricultural heritage, with exhibits featuring local produce, handicrafts, and delicacies. Visitors can sample traditional dishes such as “binaki” (rice cake), “linapet” (dried meat), and “puso” (hanging rice), all made with fresh ingredients sourced from Bukidnon’s fertile lands.
Beyond its cultural and culinary delights, the Kaamulan Festival also serves as a platform for promoting eco-tourism and environmental conservation. Bukidnon’s natural wonders, including its cascading waterfalls, towering mountains, and sprawling rice terraces, are showcased through guided tours and outdoor adventures, encouraging visitors to appreciate and preserve the province’s ecological treasures.
In recent years, the Kaamulan Festival has evolved into a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from across the Philippines and around the world. Its significance goes beyond mere entertainment; it is a testament to the resilience, diversity, and cultural pride of the people of Bukidnon.
As the beating heart of Bukidnon’s cultural identity, the Kaamulan Festival continues to thrive, serving as a beacon of unity, diversity, and cultural preservation. It is a celebration of the past, present, and future, reminding us of the importance of honoring our roots while embracing the rich tapestry of cultures that make our world so wonderfully diverse.###
