MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), delegates from Indigenous People Communities, and constituents of the 21 villages within the Mt. Kalatungan Mountain Range have gathered to commemorate the 17th Aldaw ta Kalatungan

On October 18-19, 2023, all participants have gathered in Barangay Tikalaan, Talakag, Bukidnon. The theme was “Kagsabuwa para hu buhay ha Kinaiyahan daw Kultura para hu sumosunod ha kaliwatan” (Building Alliance for Sustainable Ecosystem and Culture for Future Generations).

Forester Ner A. Doydoy, Protected Area Superintendent (PASu) of Mt. Kalatungan, and his team led the yearly celebration.

Mr. Vergilino P. Alima, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer of DENR Bukidnon, graced the event.

Cong. Jose Manuel F. Alba of the first legislative district of Bukidnon was among the distinguished guests in attendance.

Datu Johnny B. Guina, Chairperson of the Council of Elders of Mt. Kalatungan headed the IP participants.

Talakag Mayor Vergito O. Factura has dispatched his town Administrator as the celebration’s host.

The event marks the recognition of Mt. Kalatungan Range Natural Park (MKaRNP) as a Protected Area.

The event is centered on an intensive Education and Information Campaign. Beyond this, the event serves as a unique chance to create a stronger sense of collaboration and teamwork among the diverse stakeholders of the park, with particular emphasis on strengthening ties with the Indigenous Community residing within its borders.

Furthermore, the celebration seeks to convey sincere gratitude and genuine admiration for the tireless efforts and unwavering dedication demonstrated by all those involved in the preservation of MKaRNP.

Datu Joel Alahay, Barangay Tikalaan IP Mandatory Representative (IPMR), and the Council of Elders led the ritual.

A tree-planting activity at the schoolyard of Tikalaan National High School was organized. The Dole KASILAK Foundation and MENRO of LGU Talakag have donated tree seedlings.

The LGU Talakag has sponsored the feeding program activity held at Tikalaan Central Elementary School, serving approximately 700 participating students.

Tikalaan National High School served as the venue for both Hatod Serbisyo and the Medical and Dental Mission. The Del Monte Medical Team and the Municipal Health Office of LGU Talakag, supported by the Health Workers of Barangay Tikalaan, sponsored the event.

In the Indigenous Sports Competition, IP groups displayed their skills. The annual event was highlighted by the Laga ta Kalatungan pageant competition, Pasundayag (a cultural dance presentation), and a Jingle Contest.

The following day, the 223 devoted MKaRNP Bantay Lasang Volunteers convened. This essential meeting provided a crucial platform for the volunteers to deliberate and address emerging challenges within their designated area of responsibility.

The event also garnered the participation of eminent members of the Protected Area Management Board of MKaRNP. The convergence of these notable figures not only highlighted the significance of the celebration but also emphasized the collective determination to promote sustainable development and environmental conservation in the locality.

The 18th Aldaw ta Kalatungan will be hosted by LGU Pangantucan, as per the agreement.

Standing at a remarkable 2,824 meters above sea level, Mt. Kalatungan dominates the central part of the province with its impressive height. Stretching across Valencia City and the neighboring towns of Maramag, Pangantucan, and Talakag, it’s a significant portion of the province. (melbmadera)