Malaybalay City Division was represented by 30 pupils/students and ten advisers/coordinators during the 1st Hudyaka sa Kabataang Lumad in the Province of Bukidnon at Impasug-ong, Bukidnon on November 6-8. The group’s participation was supported and endorsed by Malaybalay City Supt. Edilberto L. Oplenaria (who attended the opening program at Impasugong Municipal Gym) upon invitation of Bukidnon Supt. Ingrid G. Racoma through Division IP Focal Person EPS Edwin Gurrea.
Presentation of rhythmic graceful dances, soulful and inspiring songs, unique and well-rehearsed playing of drums (in varied forms) and string instruments were featured in the first day with the stimulating keynote address of Rosanno “Butch” E. Rufino, the Adviser to the Secretary on IP Concerns and Coordinator, Indigenous Peoples Education Office (EPsEO) on the theme, “Sabuwa Ha Bagadin, Sabuwa Ha Tuluesan” (One Culture, One Identity).
After the parade the next day, the Cultural Olympics was conducted which called for skill and stamina from the IP youngsters who represented the schools all over the province. Malaybalay City garnered awards and the players received medals for the following events, namely: Pulagoy Relay for High School Girls, CHAMPION with runners Cloe Casinabe, Kriza Aparece, Veulah Singayao and Julecy Bustillo of Bukidnon NHS Annex Kalasungay and Can-ayan Integrated School; Pulagoy Relay for High School Boys, 2nd Runner Up with runners Lemuel Suela, Clifford Singayao, Ariel Lonte, and Ralf Dave Cajardo of Bukidnon NHS Annex Kalasungay and Can-ayan Integrated School and; Pulagoy Relay for Elementary Girls, 2nd Runner Up with runners Rachel Cacay, Maxim Beza, Brendel Singayao, and Monique Lunap of Kalasungay Central School and Dalwangan Elementary School.
The chaperons and advisers who ably coached the students were Diane Olvida of Bukidnon National High School Annex Kalsungay; Analie Arances and Shiela Guinabo of Can-ayan Integrated School; Mylah Casinabe and Elizabeth Urbina of Kalasungay Central School; Myrle Prima and Principal Virgilin Pizaro of Dalwangan Elementary School; and Josie Zamora, Division IP Focal Person.
“I can see that the school children really enjoyed the experience to participate this culturally festive occasion”, Principal Pizaro commented.
–by jdzamora