The Bodong Festival: A Dynamic Celebration Unveiled in Kalinga
Get ready for the most exciting event of the year in Kalinga - the Bodong Festival! The heart of Bulanao is set to throb with energy as the province reveals plans for a series of captivating events, with the street dancing competition taking center stage.
Here's the lowdown on what promises to be an unforgettable celebration:
A Dance Extravaganza: Street Dancing Competition Insights
On February 13, the lively streets of Bulanao will host 1,145 talented street dancers. They'll gather near the Rotary Marker, close to the Davidson Hotel in Tabuk City. The lineup boasts a diverse ensemble, including 200 performers each from Balbalan and Lubuagan, 80 from Pasil, 120 from Pinukpuk, 170 from Rizal, 180 from Tabuk City, 80 from Tanudan, and 115 from Tinglayan.
Cultural Respect: Caution Regarding Costumes
Adding a thoughtful touch, the Kalinga provincial government urges participants to avoid costumes made from Lilabey and Kila-e, two culturally significant textiles. These fabrics carry deep cultural and spiritual importance, deserving of the utmost respect.
Festival Highlights: More Than Just Dance
Beyond the captivating dance performances, the Bodong Festival unfolds a month-long celebration in February, offering a diverse array of activities. From the lively Grand Kick-off Day to the Bodong Congress, the Lumin-awa Trek, and the unique inclusion of gentlemen in the ambassador search, there's something for everyone. Additional highlights include Municipality Day, Bodong Agro-Fair, Pasil Slow Food and Earth Market, and School's Day.
Star-Studded Guests: A Dash of Glamour
Adding a touch of celebrity to the festivities, Senator Robin Padilla and Mariel Padilla are expected to grace the event as guests of honor and speakers. Their presence adds an extra layer of excitement to an already star-studded affair.
Embracing Cultural Sensitivity
As participants and spectators immerse themselves in the festival's exuberance, respecting the call for cultural sensitivity is crucial. Upholding the significance of Lilabey and Kila-e textiles ensures an authentic representation of Kalinga's heritage, making the celebration richer and more meaningful.
Bodong Festival Schedule of Activities
Mark your calendars for the exciting lineup of events at this year's Bodong Festival! Here's what's in store:
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February 5, 2024: The festivities kick off with the "Ayag" church bell ringing followed by an ecumenical service and the sashing ceremony of Mr. and Miss Kalinga candidates. The Kalinga Treasures Fair opens in the afternoon, showcasing local products.
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February 7-10: Experience the Lumin-awa Trek Adventure at Mt. Binaratan in Tanudan. The trek begins at the Provincial Capitol Canopy at 5 a.m. on February 7. Meanwhile, the Kalinga Bodong Youth Summit takes place on February 8 at Kalinga State University-Bulanao Campus.
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February 8: Witness the turnover ceremony of the Banneng-Darulog Farm to Market Road in Tanudan at 8:30 a.m.
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February 9: Preliminary competition for Mr. and Ms. Kalinga pageant at Rang-ay Eco-Adventure and Resort in Babalag West, Rizal, Kalinga.
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February 10: Bodong Bikefest for biking enthusiasts. Bodong Congress and Kalinga Lumin-awa Off-road continue until February 11.
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February 12: Enjoy the cultural parade, formal program, and opening of Agro-fair, Pasil Slow Food, and Earth Market in the morning. In the afternoon, witness Bodong Portrayal of Balbalan and Tinglayan, followed by 'Digdiga di Tupayya'. End the day with the Lumin-awa Kalinga Concert.
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February 13: Main events include Bodong Festival Street Dance Competition and Secondary Schools Drum and Lyre Competition. The night concludes with the crowning of the province's ambassador and ambassadress.
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February 14: Celebrate Kalinga's anniversary with a grand civic parade, formal program, Elementary Schools Drum and Lyre Competition, and Kalinga Laga Show.
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February 15: Farmers' cooperatives, ethnolinguistic groups, and civil society organizations take center stage. Winners of the 2nd coffee quality competition and coffee tasting will be awarded.
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February 16: Medical and dental outreach and Bingo Bonanza by Rang-ay Eco-Adventure Resort.
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February 17: Enjoy indigenous games at the Kalinga Sports Center.
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February 20: Conclude the festival with Governor James Edduba's "Lumin-awa Kalinga Blood Donation Drive" in Balbalan.
Unveiling the Festive Experience
The Bodong Festival in Kalinga promises not just a spectacular dance showcase but a dynamic journey into the heart of a rich cultural heritage. With diverse events, celebrity guests, and a call for cultural respect, the festival stands as a testament to the vibrant spirit of Kalinga. As February approaches, anticipation for this dynamic celebration continues to grow, offering an experience that transcends mere festivity - it's a cultural immersion into the soul of Kalinga.
