Trekking galore in Ifugao

By Anthony A. Araos

The sight of six European tourists with their huge bags at the Ohayami Trans bus terminal in Sampaloc, Manila easily served as an indication of the fondness of foreign visitors of trekking. They were waiting for their Banaue-bound evening trip.
Two young ladies from Scotland (one who lives near the port of Glasgow and the other who is a student of a university in Aberdeen) asked me to recommend sites of trekking in Ifugao. I readily replied: “The towns of Asipulo, Banaue and Mayoyao are must-places to go for trekking adventures.” “Trekkers will be awed by the trails in these towns with their virgin rainforests teeming with life. Take my word for it, these are gate away places for trekking. These towns of awesome beauty and bounty are worth visiting and you won’t be disappointed at all,” I added.
In particular, I emphasized the fact that there are a number of trekking sites in Mayoyao. This is an excellent opportunity for trekkers to see how and why grain farming is concentrated on the fertile soil belts of majestic Mayoyao mountains. It’s too good to be true!
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While other congressional candidates in Ifugao are engaged in scoring “pogi” (handsome) points in their so-called “sorties” in the province’s 11 towns, I noticed an entirely different approach being taken by former Governor Eugene Balitang. In pursuing his quest to succeed Ifugao Rep. Teodoro Baguilat Jr. (who is on his third and last term and is now running for governor under the opposition Liberal Party), Atty. Balitang is deeply in touch with the people. He is building strong partnerships with nongovernment organizations (NGOs), people’s organizations (POs), business organizations, the barangay governments, the academe and the civil society in pushing for reforms and policies that are geared towards eliminating poverty and promoting economic development and inclusive growth. There is more to this appeal than what the surface holds. In fact, many are now saying that there are plenty of reasons the still “undecided” voter can reap should he or she decide to join the growing number of the so-called EMB (Balitang’s initials) volunteers and advocates. In particular, his contributions in shaping values and inspiring others by his outstanding achievements attained from humble origins through hard work, perseverance and discipline, are drawing huge support from young voters.
Spending a substantial time with the “common tao” in the grassroots level has a huge price to pay. One has to sacrifice long hours away from home and loved ones to stress the message. But many times, you have to do what you have to do. “Now, I’m working hard to touch base with them, not for myself, but for our Ifugao folks’ children,” Balitang emphasizes. The Ifugao electorate should know what is at stake in the May midterm elections.
The next Congressman, who should have a platform that centers on promoting economic growth, active involvement of Ifugao civil society and squarely fight against corruption, will subsequently establish himself as a valued leader in addressing global challenges. Ifugao is rich in natural resources. Yet, it is one of the poorest provinces in the country. Because of its potentials, Ifugao should be able to make a turnaround and stop its slide to oblivion and backwardness. By doing so, it will have a better position in the years to come in terms of being competitive.
Voting doesn’t always mean just going to the polling precinct to cast a ballot. When you vote, take it as an opportunity to see the bigger picture and to take a good, long look at what you really want to have in the next three years. Do you want an impoverished Ifugao or not? If you want a better Ifugao, you’ll find something to do about it rather than vote for a clown or crook. Find a way to influence others to do what you’re passionate about choosing the right leader.
By 2022, the Ifugao folks should then be enjoying the rewards born by years of steady leadership and hard work of its incoming congressman who shares a common vision of a thriving province. Only when an Ifugao voter finds a way to choose the right leader that the results are desirable.
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A huge tarpaulin showing the administration PDP-Laban ‘s candidates for congressman, governor and vice governor in Ifugao, describing them as “the President’s men” has raised eyebrows as well as questions and brought forth cracks among the ranks of party aspirants and backers. It was conspicuously placed at Gazebo Restaurant in Lagawe last Christmas season. For instance, does it mean that Hingyon-based engineer Julio Tindungan (who is running for board member in the first district) is not one of them? Engineer Tindungan precisely joined the PDP-Laban because he is fully supportive of President Duterte’s agenda for federalism and strong drive to curb drug abuse. How about former Vice Governor Nora Dinamling and former Vice Mayor Agustin Calya-en of Tinoc, who are both running for the same position in this district under the PDP-Laban? Where is their voice in the equation? Perhaps, after all these kinks are settled, maybe the party’s candidates for mayor, vice mayor and councilor can be heard without their supporters and loved ones shuddering about their opinions and aspirations for equal opportunity to use the democratic space. All of them are good enough to be a part of President’s circle and they do have thoughts on how their campaign should be developed, operated and managed. In other words, one has to be politically savvy when running a bunch of diverse wannabes united by a common persuasion or belief. All told, this unfortunate development can be incorporated on a subject matter of a political science class. How about having an essay examination with the following thought: How to demoralize the ranks of the party without really trying?
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After winning the barangay polls in 2018, Poblacion South Punong Barangay Chresante Da-ang devoted himself to improving conditions in the village. He is credited with the strong enforcement of an ordinance on parking. In the past six months since Punong Barangay Da-ang assumed office, Poblacion South has seen steady growth, mainly due to smooth transition of power and an environment conducive to trade and commerce.
Punong Barangay Da-ang is widely recognized for ensuring the presence of the barangay government through good governance that is clean, effective, just, participatory, reliable and democratic.
Agriculture is the main source of livelihood in Poblacion South. Rice and vegetables are the staple foods. Investors who want to explore and tap Poblacion South’s vast wealth of resources should not hesitate to drop by the barangay hall.
It is prayed that Punong Barangay Da-ang shall continue with his advocacy for reforms that help shape a brighter future for Poblacion South. He should also encourage private sector participation in the provision of infrastructure and social services to promote general welfare and improve the quality of life of the people thus, serve his constituents dutifully and faithfully well at all times. For short, there is a need for pushing for more ventures or undertakings to strengthen the partnership between the Poblacion South Barangay Council and the private sector towards economic development.
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Many were so impressed with the performance of Sanggunian Kabataan (youth council) Federation President Aezle Dumangeng since she assumed this position last year. This development in the youth sector is essential not only in filling up the SK seat at the influential and powerful Sanggunian Panlalawigan (provincial board), but also in the implementation of programs, projects and activities geared for the well-being of the young.
Ms. Dumangeng, who hails from Kiangan, faces a lot of challenges in 2019 and beyond. The SK Federation of Ifugao undoubtedly has to improve the quality of living of the young. Having recently been deluged from the bags of questions related to the controversy-marred SK polls and the scourge of proposals for projects throughout the province, she is savoring her newfound status of being a Board Member and hopes to explore other horizons during her stint with the SP bigwigs.
Nonetheless, her assumption into office is a good cause for celebration. She is expected to carry on the public service task of serving well her constituents and the world of what keeps the nation nurturing for.
Ms. Dumangeng is one of the most sought-after speakers in Ifugao, lauded for her outstanding knowledge and skills in the field. As a public servant, she is distinguished for her humility, hard work and discipline. Love her or hate her, there is no denying that Dumangeng is a youthful and promising youthful leader who has put Ifugao back on the political map.
I am urging provincial government employees to welcome youth groups and to assist them in their concerns. This is integral in bringing the government much closer to them. It ushers the start of continuing and productive dialogue between the youth and the government.
Today, she remains committed to her role in leading the youth as a catalyst for change and economic growth. Ms. Dumangeng has to develop and implement transformative programs in the SK Federation. Surely, the biggest transformative effort up ahead in her vital role in transitioning the focus on merely educating youngsters on the repercussions of illegal drugs to enlightening them to speak up on key issues affecting the society and the stakes are high. There is a dire need to make the SK relevant by focusing on the conduct of seminars geared on imparting innovations in leadership and governance. For short, the SK should reinvent itself as a learning tool or environment for institutional leadership and direction setting. I am most willing to help and work with her office in drafting proposals and measures to upgrade the young’s capacities on e-learning technology in the advent of digital innovations all around us. I’m also hopeful that Board Member Dumangeng initiates reading programs in the grassroots level to help children become ready for school. Why a reading program when kids are already engrossed with cellphones? Reading nurtures their passion for learning and increases their literacy.
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I am commending Wilfreda Tultog for her dedication to duty in improving the conditions of the members of Boliwong Women’s Organization. She is the president of this Lagawe-based nongovernment organization. It has 48 members. To Ms. Tultog: God bless and Mabuhay!
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I’m extending a bit my so-called “food adventure” trip or experience by citing the fact that restaurants abroad are offering the best of the West and the East with their European and Asian menus.
China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau are the best places to understand and appreciate the value of “food adventure” vis-à-vis the aggressive effort to lure tourists.
Peking duck, mushroom soup and delicious pork dishes are a must-try in the forthcoming Chinese Lunar New Year.
In the past, I learned a lot from culinary enthusiasts in these northeastern Asian places about the greatness of lunch time dimensions.
Adding multiple food galore treats to one’s trip in these places easily provide a good view of how the tourism industry abroad is flourishing.
Vegetables used for cuisines are undoubtedly freshly-picked. It is for this reason I see the need to hold a Food Festival in this part of the region. An organically-raised vegetables-themed Food festival to be more exact shall be able to draw thousands of tourists. Of course, the ideal venue is Mayoyao town, long acknowledged as the hub of organic farming in Ifugao.
Enjoying those best-loved, well-loved Chinese meals (such as Cantonese dishes), speaks a lot of good vibes not just in the holiday season. I’ll surely go for it soon and then switch back to my all-time favorite of squash with gata (coconut milk) and fried rice.
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Finally, some thoughts for our readers: “His dynasty shall last forever.” Ps 89:2-3
“I have been blessed in Christ with every heavenly blessings.” Eph 1:3
“Loyalty is important.” Former President and Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.**