By Anthony A. Araos

A lot of people are already thinking of 2019. Honestly, I’m one of them. Seven months still to go this year, am I kidding? I’m serious, that’s how things are fast shaping up here and elsewhere.
Thinking big is one reason why there is still hope for the tourism industry in Ifugao. Foreign tourists are still staying away from the province. We can talk of tourists coming in big numbers in Baguio City or Sagada town in Mountain Province. Not in Banaue or Hungduan towns in Ifugao. Everything seems not right in a province not lacking in attractions. What’s wrong out here? Some crazy things got into spinning resulting in a dismal record of tourist arrivals in Ifugao. Officials speak loudly of the vitality of drawing local and foreign tourists to Ifugao. Yet, they are the very ones who are opposed to plans of putting up an airport in the province. The conduct of a debate on this issue will indeed substantiate my point and unmask those who are arguing against it, when in fact they are the ones who are taking a number of foreign trips. The opposition to the airport plan is retrogressive thinking that will not help Ifugao catch up with the rest of the world. As the sun sets each day, poor Ifugao folks continue to see other provinces move forward towards progress. For one, the planned Php735.63-billion airport in Bulacan of San Miguel Corp. (SMC) is likely to boost the province’s tourism industry. There lies the importance of crafting a new tourism masterplan for Ifugao.
With less than a year to go before the top brass (Governor Pedro Mayam-o is reportedly eyeing a congressional seat presently occupied by oppositionist Rep. Teddy Baguilat Jr. who is on his last term and Vice Governor Jose Jordan Gullitiw is likewise contemplating a run for governor) seek better fortunes, it is doubtful if any move is to be taken to discard the antiquated, outdated and unsound tourism masterplan of the province.
Whoever will be elected governor and vice-governor (and more importantly, congressman) in 2019 will benefit from a new well-attuned tourism masterplan crafted by the private sector.
Thinking small is one explanation why Ifugao lags behind her neighbors in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) in so far as attracting these visitors. Often times, officials put emphasis on the Gotad program (held sometime in June) as a means of attracting tourists primarily in Lagawe. They forgot the other eleven months of the year. Haven’t it crossed their minds that there are ten other towns in the province? From Kiangan to Aguinaldo, the emergence of these towns as new destinations can simultaneously help boost the attractiveness of Ifugao as a tourist spot. Why not hold the Gotad ad Ifugao in other towns?
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The question in the mind of many, in particular, those in the business sector, about the future of the tourism industry here in 2019, is: What is the next destination after Banaue to really focused on wholeheartedly by the officialdom?
For its numerous wonderful attractions, fairly good accommodation and proximity to Banaue town, it is reasonable to say that the best shot of incoming officials is Mayoyao.
Since these factors are already well in place for quite some time, they are valid and hard to be ignored or downplayed, regardless who gets to sit at the provincial capitol building. It will be tragic if they rather choose to stay on course and say “no need to rock the boat and its business as usual.”
The time has come to invest in Mayoyao. The reasons are too obvious. It is not too much in the asking to allow local and foreign tourists to stay three days or more in the heart of the province’s organic agriculture heartland. Flexible and competitive financing schemes should be introduced for those who want to put up lodging inns in the town.
As long as rooms for accommodation remain insufficient in Mayoyao, this problem will continue to persists in detriment to the best interest of the town’s promising tourism industry. Expect that this condition will continue until there is a concrete action taken.
Instead of giving up easily on the problem, municipal government officials should look at it as an opportunity to attract investors. In the same way, with regard to improving or upgrading other tourism-related facilities in the town, they should look at them as a chance to work with those in the private sector.
On a clear and bright day, visitors see the panoramic rice terraces of Mayoyao. There, at these cultural heritage-declared sites, serve as a pleasant surprise for adventurous travelers. On top of a rice terraces, visitors can get a spectacular view of the town. Thus, these enchanting rice terraces have become major tourist attractions of Mayoyao.
Apart from these rice terraces, the Matuytuy-ub Falls is another site worth visiting here.
Early morning, you could hike to vast fields of organic produce. From there you can enjoy a rare view of rich earth plots unthreatened by pesticides, herbicides and other harmful substances. On a clear sunny day the view is simply fantastic. It is always a perfect time to understand and appreciate the greatness of organic farming. Organic agriculture is one of the best ways you can ensure the people’s health. In the past, I didn’t know that, I thought that it is a ridiculous practice and therefore could lead to losses in crop production but apparently not. Well, I got it wrong.
Here’s good news for Mayoyao folks, in general, and organic farm practitioners, in particular. Newly-appointed Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo Puyat is very knowledgeable in organic and farm tourism.
You don’t have to be a genius to see the connection since Mayoyao is said to be the “organic farming capital of Ifugao,” and that’s all you need to relay the word to Secretary Puyat for much-needed assistance.
Thinking Mayoyao allows the flexibility in using forward-looking and innovative strategies to consolidate understanding of new challenges the town is facing. In a not-so-distant future, folks here shall give a rapturous welcome on visitors as a manifestation of their warmth and hospitality. I have heard it a lot of times, that Mayoyao is the “hidden Shangrila of Ifugao.” It may awaken many to realize that there’s more to the town’s famed rice terraces than just thinking of the said description.
How to get there: There is no more need to take the longer route through Santiago City. Buses and vans from Lagawe are taking the Banaue to Mayoyao road daily.
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As time went by a good number of Ifugao folks are sounding the need for Samson Atluna to go back to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan. I see this as a reason to celebrate renaissance of good public service. The tenure of Board Member Atluna for nine years is the heart of the people’s lives. It’s when people felt close to the government. So I’m recalling the days that just and efficient governance inspired people to do their share in the task of nation-building. The year 2019- an election year, should be a time to once more inspire and enable Ifugao folks in contributing to this noble cause.
Many Ifugao folks find dismal crop production discomforting especially in a province so blessed in rich soil and yet, burdened with mounting poverty and surging employment rate. How did Ifugao ended up at the rear portion of the CAR in terms of agriculture production? Where this points the finger is at the capability of those who walks in the corridors-of-powers in so far as responding to the needs of impoverished farmers.
But there is something else going on here, too. Board Members- except for one or two, are hardly seen at the provincial capitol building after their sessions on Tuesday and a committee hearing on Wednesday. During his incumbency, Mr. Atluna stayed with his family in Lagawe at a rented house. He’s around, accessible and within reach at the capitol town—a real gift. While then Board Member Atluna is from Mayoyao and represents the second district of Ifugao, he technically serves the whole province. He was always there to listen and help folks from poverty-stricken towns of Tinoc and Asipulo, both towns situated in the first district. And that makes me feel good about what I’m driving at. Bring him back to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan!
Towards this goal, Mr. Atluna draws his strength from his performance and genuine service in the past. Author of the Organic Farming Act of Ifugao, Mr. Atluna was involved in various socially-oriented groups that primed his knowledge and interest in advancing the cause of the marginalized. I vouch and attest to his unbending commitment to serve the Filipino people.
If anything, thinking of Mr. Samson Atluna is inevitable for seeking public office simply means preparing well for the job. Without a doubt, he made the grade. He had legislative ability.
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Some are saying that former municipal officials need not throw their hats in the 2019 polls. I beg to disagree.
A case in point is that of former Hingyon Vice Mayor Marcos Bantiyan. He served as the most dynamic chairman of the Committee on Economic Affairs at the Sangguniang Bayan. He also served as Punong Barangay for five years and Councilor for six years. Concerned about the town’s agriculture sector, Bantiyan wants to be the leading voice at the municipal council of farmers and others in the underserved sector. A resident of barangay Bitu, Bantiyan vows to promote and protect the rights of women, indigenous peoples and teachers as well as other government workers. For his commitment to people’s rights, various non-government organizations (NGOs) lauded him for looking after the interest and welfare of the people.
Bantiyan is a hardworking and dedicated public servant. Above all, he is not a traditional politician or “trapo.” He is reportedly eyeing a seat at the Sangguniang Bayan.
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By highlighting the major festivals in the Philippines, Aliwan Fiesta was held recently at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Complex in Pasay City. There were 33 participating festivals. CAR’s representatives: Panagbenga Festival of Baguio City and Abrenian Kawayan Festival of Abra.
It is high time for chief backers in the public sector of the Gotad ad Ifugao Festival to go back to the drawing board. Re-format, re-focus and re-invent the Gotad Festival to make it competitive and be at the level with other festivals. The shade of worn-out, dull and boring presentations and activities for several years was overpowering to the dismay of largely thinning crowds.
There is simply no reason to rejoice on holding an Agro-Industrial Trade Fair to support the notion that Ifugao is progressing when over 90 percent of the exhibits featured wag-wag (old or second-hand) clothes and goods and food stuff such as halo-halo, fruit shakes, fish ball and the likes. A trade fair is supposed to showcase the best produce of a locality.
Innovation is not possible without understanding the challenge being addressed. All told, it all boils down to the mind-set issue. It is not yet too late in the day to privatize this festival.
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Congratulations to the newly-elected village chieftains in Lagawe. They are Barangay Captains (Punong Barangays) Bernardo Dinamling of Abinuan, Amado Tuguinay of Banga, Julio Paud of Boliwong, Leodante Dumangeng of Burnay, Amelita Punno of Buyabuyan, James Buhulon of Caba, Victor Tayaban of Cudog, Edwin Dulnuan of Dulao, Domingo Hinumla of Jucbong, Nicasio Dimangna Jr. of Luta, Edwin Bumolyad of Montabiong, Denver Taguiling of Olilicon, Alfonso Dominong of Poblacion East, Ericson Inhumang of Poblacion North, Chresente Da-ang of Poblacion South, Simplicia Dipia-o of Poblacion West, Victor Pun-adwan of Ponghal, Michael Patnaan of Pullaan, Marlon Bandao of Tungngod and Joey Pinkihan of Tupaya.
I understand that it must have been so difficult for most of them to campaign against their friends or even relatives for the much-coveted position. In spite of this, I’m expressing my heartfelt appreciation for all their efforts to ensure the conductof an orderly and peaceful polls. God bless and Mabuhay!
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Incoming barangay council officials in Ifugao are up to the task of educating folks on disposing properly residual waste (such as leftover food and liquid waste). It is crucial in the segregation of garbage drive. It’s damning, there’s no other way to put it. The stench of such waste says it all. Do it immediately and get results fast!
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Blooper in Ifugao: At a t-shirt it says: “Ifugao LGU, We are the hope and catalist of social change.” It should be catalyst. A dictionary may be purchased as an office supply. Need they look for funds to buy one?
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A tip for success: Climbing the ladder to success these days is rather not that easy. Work very hard at the office or elsewhere. Always take into account several factors and make adjustments or modifications of your plans. Modified goals are meant to take into consideration the circumstances around you. So there is a need to adjust the goal and be more realistic. But the goal remains the same. Above all, always pray!
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For our food delights corner: Let us come out something unforgettable for breakfast time. What else than the all-time Filipino favorite of “longsilog.” This refers to a meal of longganisa, fried rice and egg. Complete your meal with a glass of chilled pineapple juice.
For appetizer and dessert: bananas, potato salad and leche flan.
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Finally, some thoughts for our readers: “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God.” 1 John 4:7
“The Liberal Party is in the process of reflection, reconnecting and redefining which are important requisites to rebuilding itself.” Sen. Francis Pangilinan, president of the LP.**