Bauko, Mountain Province– Begnas is a culture of thanksgiving among the kankanaeys of Bauko. It is celebrated once a year to thank Kabunyan and the spirits of ancestors at the same time to ask favours in relation to the socio-economic and political concerns of the community. A celebration that shall not only serve as merry making but a cord that shall bind the umili into collective action.
Begnas di Bauko will be celebrated on March 9-11, 2017 at the municipal Oval Ground in Poblacion, Bauko, Mountain Province. It’s theme “Gabay di esek, sikan di ipogaw, bikas di umili, katagtaguan di sasayangdan” will draw the 22 barangays into showcasing their own unique features and products during the celebration.
The first day will feature the cultural presentations from the barangays. The agricultural and livelihood products of each barangay will also take center stage for promotion and marketing. Tours to Bauko’s tourism destinations will also be conducted. A Bayo (pounding rice) challenge will also be sponsored with a “sabeng “ (fermented corn) cooking contest which shall take place during the first day dubbed as Barangay Day. “Anap di Bangan” will be on the first night of the celebration.
The second day will showcase folk dances, ballroom dancing, music with the children, parents and the singing priests. The third day will be merry making with indigenous games and an event with the Red Cross.
Prior to the Begnas celebration the municipality will be celebrating the International Women’s Day on March 8, 2017 with a parade and program at the municipal gymnasium followed by a mass at the municipal oval ground.** Arsenia Addon
