BAGUIO CITY (PIA) — The Benguet Indigenous Youth Arts Guild (BIYAG) continues to make waves in the community as it celebrates its third year of promoting indigenous culture and nurturing the talents of the youth in Benguet province.
BIYAG is a cultural and artistic organization dedicated to empowering the youth of Benguet province through indigenous heritage and creative expression. It aims to provide opportunities for youth participation in cultural activities, and promote pride in indigenous identity. Through workshops, competitions, and community events, BIYAG seeks to nurture young talents and foster a sense of belonging among Benguet’s youth population.
Through Governor Melchor Daguines Diclas, and executive assistant Dr. Ryan Guinaran, BIYAG was conceptualized as a platform for youth participation in the cultural and artistic activities of the province.
Since its inception, BIYAG has been instrumental in showcasing the rich heritage of Benguet through various events, including the annual BIYAG Festival.
Benguet Local Youth Development Officer Francis Louis Likigan Jr. highlighted the significance of the organization in engaging the youth in meaningful activities that contribute to their personal growth and community development.
“For the past three years, nakita natin na maraming mga bata ang may talent na mag-paint. From five years old, ‘yung last, four-year-old na painter. Ito ‘yung mga tinitignan natin na magandang i-develop pa sa kanila. Encourage and let them be part of the activity. They have to be part sa mga programs na challenging naman para hindi po sila ma-bore,” Likigan said.
One of BIYAG’s core initiatives is the Youth Summit, where the voices and aspirations of young Benguet residents are heard and valued. Through workshops, competitions, and cultural showcases,it aims to instill a sense of pride in indigenous identity and foster creativity among the youth.
With events in 2023 such as photography training, dance and song competitions, and a challenging hike to Mount Pulag, BIYAG continues to provide avenues for young Benguet residents to explore their talents and connect with their heritage.
The organization has also been proactive in collaborating with various organizations, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations to expand its reach and impact.
Partnerships with groups like the Department of Agriculture and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology have allowed BIYAG to offer diverse programs, including workshops on painting, photography, percussion, and native instruments.
“Meron tayong mga writers din. Meron lang silang inilabas na mga libro. And then, they would be launching one of the books na sinulat ng mga bata. And ito ‘yung mga tinitignan natin na outcome sana ng mga nagpa-participate sa BIYAG. Para hindi lang matapos ang BIYAG, wala na.”
Likigan encouraged every Benguet youth to participate, regardless of their skill level. He emphasized that BIYAG is not just about showcasing talent but also about nurturing it.
BIYAG remains committed to its mission of empowering youth through culture and the arts.**JDP/DEG-PIA CAR-Novelyn Metua, BSU Intern .
