LAGAWE, IFUGAO – – Rice wine-making activity, also known as “munkail” usually comes to mind when it comes to officially starting the annual “Gotad ad Ifugao” festival. And that’s not much of worry since the activity’s prime movers are around. They are seasoned individuals long associated with the provincial government.
Truly, the recent activity at the Lagawe plaza contains a wealth of valuable knowledge and instruction on preparing this popular native rice wine.
Moreover, it teaches many about the foundation of the provinces’ cultural heritage. What great prospects still lie ahead? By large, this pushes forward the momentum of interest for the festivity.
For now, it’s time wating for the so-called “finished product” and ultimately realizing “a better taste” of it and take a drink. A drink for all revelry follows. At the Gotad, visitors or guests can also enjoy a drink or two while catching up into various events.
One of the main reasons the activity was held was to prepare folks ahead of time and then how to respond in advance to a number of situations they could possibly encounter along the way.
One’s time would be better spent if he or she knew why it’s so important to drink moderately. It’s about wisdom in truly feeling about people whose tribe or social backgrounds are different from their own. Drunkenness from beer, hard liquor and even “baya” is a societal menace.
Early preparations permanently strengthen Gotad organizers’ ability to ensure overall success.
The activity’s accomplishment has been significant. Credit it to Provincial Heritage and Tourism Officer Roscoe Kalaw. He is known for his visionary leadership and significant contributions to the provincial government. Today, he is ever committed to provide best services for empowering folks. It’s not difficult to see why. It really changed how many view culture and the province now because of it.
Additionally, Kalaw introduced the widest participation in the activity, encompassing several towns.
Hardworking participants from these towns are committed to working together collaboratively for a shared legacy and vision. To make people strong and the abundance of rice- the nation’s staple food, will make the young men and women flourish.
Of course, there is a difficult task ahead amid the soaring prices of goods and services. There are production losses in the agriculture sector as well as financial strain from the substantial costs associated with the energy crisis.
Just as important is the understanding of alcoholic fermentation, it is essential to teach skills that encourage people to start their own businesses. Through these initiatives, more communities can look forward to undercutting their poverty incidence rates. Ifugao is one of the poorest provinces in the country.
For a province as delineated by two geographical districts as Ifugao, one can expect several Gotad events. The provincial government is now conducting its countdown.
Meantime, it’s time to level up all things related to the rice wine. Change bottles, introduce labels, put nutrition information and indicate manufacturer’s location. A German tourist said “these recommendations had merit.” **By Anthony A. Araos
