BAGUIO CITY (PIA) — Initiatives are being undertaken to prepare the children and the youth as the next generation of culture pioneers.
To preserve and promote indigenous culture and traditions, the Sangguniang Kabataan of Barangay Kias in Baguio City, in partnership with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Baguio and Kias Elementary School conducted the “Am-amung iti Panagsala” [Gathering of Dances] on Oct. 25, 2025 at the Kias Multipurpose Hall and Covered Court.
During the seminar and dance workshop, around 60 children and youth learned about the cultural attires in the Cordillera and their proper use, as well as the traditional dances and traditional instruments.
“Yung pinaka-hope ko is ma-realize nila na importante talaga ang identity natin as indigenous peoples and matutunan nila ang proper dances, and way ng pagsuot ng traditional attires,” said Guya Ole Pangket, project head and SK kagawad of Barangay Kias.
The participants also had the opportunity to explore and trace their ancestral roots. The NCIP Baguio led a session on genealogy and facilitated a workshop.
Rachelle Dereje of NCIP Baguio said the event helps the participants trace their ethnicity.
“Para alam din naman ng mga bata kung ano ‘yung iniembrace nilang culture at kung ano ang susundan nilang identity nila,” Dereje said.
Indigenous Peoples Education coordinator Delia Benito also emphasized the importance of children familiarizing themselves with their roots.
“Mahalaga ito kasi at least andito sila sa Baguio, alam nila‘yung kanilang pinanggalingan. “Pag pupunta sila sa ibang lugar, hindi sila mawawala,” Benito said.
She also urged the parents to let their children join cultural workshops for them to enhance their learning.
Parent Fely Alyado expressed her support for the event, this is an opportunity for both their children and themselves to learn and grow.
“Actually masaya ako kaya pinasali ko yung anak ko kasi matututo sila sa mga cultures natin. Hindi lang nila maa-apply ngayon kundi sa pagtanda nila. It’s a great opportunity para sa mga bata at sa amin na rin para matuto,” Alyado said.
The Am-amung iti Panagsala is a pre-activity for the Ayyoweng di Gangsa [Sounds of Gongs] slated on November 23, 2025. This is also in celebration of the Indigenous Peoples Month with the theme “Weaving Culture, Enriching Future: Empowering Indigenous Communities as Bedrock of Sustainable Development.” **DEG-PIA CAR
