MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon (February 26, 2024) – The Indigenous Peoples (IP) of the City of Malaybalay got its new P15-million worth Tulugan Center constructed inside the City Hall Complex in Brgy. Casisang

The freshly finished project’s turnover ceremony took place on February 22, 2024, according to information given on the local government’s official Facebook page.

The occasion began with a traditional “pangagda” rite, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Atty. Jonathan Keith T. Flores, representative of Bukidnon’s 2nd Legislative District.

Mayor Jay Warren R. Pabillaran, Vice Mayor Estelito R. Marabe, Indigenous People Mandatory Representative (IPMR) Renato Sumbongan, and Tribal Chieftain Harry Sumbongan assisted Rep. Flores in the ceremony.

Also, in attendance were members of the 9th Sangguniang Panglungsod (SP), tribal chieftains, and representatives from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) District 2.

The office of Rep. Flores took the initiative to get the budget for the project from his development fund.

During the ceremony, the center’s responsibility was officially given to IPMR Sumbongan, who thanked Rep. Flores and Mayor Pabillaran for their contributions to the preservation of IP culture.

Sumbongan emphasized the center’s significance as the first of its sort in the province, acting as a tribal court and gathering place for the city’s IP leaders and guests from 46 barangays.

Rep. Flores reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting IP communities and their culture.

He emphasized the importance of utilizing the center for its intended purpose.

Mayor Pabillaran congratulated the city’s recognized tribes – the Bukidnon, Higaonon, and Umayamnon – for their unity and thanked Rep. Flores for the project.

He also stressed the city’s position as an example for conserving and fostering intellectual property of culture, traditions, and welfare.

The IP Tulugan Center also provides amenities such as guestrooms, 70 seats, and CCTV surveillance.

The multipurpose structure is designed for tribal meetings and ceremonies.

Devrex Construction Services built the facility under the direction of DPWH District 2.

Its construction began on February 8, 2023, and ended on December 15, 2023.

On the same occasion, Rep. Flores was bestowed with the title of “Datu Makatuntay” in a traditional ceremony, recognizing his consistent support and help to the IP communities in times of need. (melbmadera)