Natonin, Mtn. Prov.– The 12th Sas-alliwa Festival of this eastern town kicked off simply without much pomp this April 22, 2019.
Sas-alliwa means the gathering of relatives and friends, near and afar, to partake of indigenous foods and wines amidst merriments.
It was first staged during the time of Atty. Anna Marie Paz Rafael-Banaag as mayor who dreamed of an occasion when the natives of Natonin, in and out of the municipality, come together for a day or two.
Sas-alliwa Festival depicts the hospitality of Natonin folks showcasing the life ways, culture, tradition, and customs.
The three day town festival aims to highlight the cultural heritage of the place through the dynamic promotions of ecological tourism, products, local arts, crafts, and the general lifestyle revolving around the usual routines of the natives.
This year’s theme: “Strengthening Our Cultural Heritage and Values”, is fitting for the occasion to revisit and relive the cultural heritage of the place.
As part of the opening program, the “Chupap-papa” was conducted wherein representatives of the eleven barangays participated in catching a duck in a designated area. All participants were blindfolded.
Each barangay performed a segment in the cultural performances presenting a chosen culture such as innarum, ub-ufun, chang-as, hafit, korpe, and courtship practices, among others.
Mayor Mateo Chiyawan, who was late during the program, delivered an inspirational message thanking his constituents for sustaining the conduct of the Sas-alliwa Festival.
“The spirit of Sas-alliwa among us is still alive and vibrant”, he said referring to the concerted efforts of the people in coming out with the presentations and participating in the activities.
Ball games and indigenous games were conducted. On the 25th of April, the Guest of Honor and Speaker, Baguio City Prosecutor Atty. Elmer Sagsago who hails from Balangao here, delivered his message..**Roger Sacyaten
