MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon – Instead of imposing a punitive “Sala,” leaders of
Bukidnon’s seven Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs) chose the path of “Hapuhap hu
Gahinawa”—a sacred act of reconciliation—following the uproar over the misuse of indigenous
attire and accessories during the April 16 Lechon Festival under Kaamulan Festival 2026

The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Bukidnon Provincial Office described
the process as a healing rite meant to restore relationships, mend spiritual harm, and renew
mutual respect rather than deepen division.
In a statement dated April 20, NCIP Bukidnon strongly condemned the cultural misuse,
prompting a decisive gathering of elders and IP leaders from the Higaonon, Talaandig,
Bukidnon, Umayamnon, Tigwahanon, Manobo, and Matigsalug communities.
Through a customary dialogue held on April 23 at the NCIP provincial office in Malaybalay
City, Bukidnon, consensus was reached to resolve the issue through traditional means rooted in
their ancestral laws and practices.
The dialogue, facilitated by NCIP acting provincial officer Ronaldo L. Baya-on, underscored that
sacred attire and accessories are not mere decorations but embodiments of identity, spirituality,
and lineage. United in purpose, the seven ICCs called for stricter cultural sensitivity protocols
and meaningful consultation in all future activities involving their heritage.
Guided by leaders including Provincial IPMR Datu Makayuba Renato Sumbongan, Bai
Gawhanën Ma. Shirlene Sario, and Datu Elvito Lantao, the process also outlined concrete steps
for reconciliation.
Organizers were asked to provide ritual materials—one pig, eight chickens, and other sacred
items—for a cleansing ceremony, along with seven carabaos as a symbol of restored harmony
under the Hapuhap hu Gahinawa.
As a gesture of traditional diplomacy, IP leaders encouraged the Provincial Agriculture Office to
designate a Datu or tribal representative for continued negotiations should immediate compliance
prove difficult.
The meeting was attended by NCIP community service heads, IPMRs, local officials, and
stakeholders, including PAgrO chief Maria Lilith Turan, alongside event and tourism
representatives.
A follow-up assembly is set on May 20, 2026, to formally conduct the ritual and finalize
agreements—an effort not only to resolve the conflict but also to strengthen the enduring bond
between government institutions and Bukidnon’s Indigenous communities. (melbmadera)