tubadmindanao

Greek envoy visits Sarangani

2012-01-29T16:14:00.000-08:00

SARANGANI HIGHLANDS, General Santos City (December 11, 2011) - Greek Ambassador Xenia Stefanidou holds a frame of Blaan women photographed at the Lamlifew village in Malungon during a recent visit to Sarangani province which she described as “paradise”. Stefanidou also visited the white sand beaches of Gumasa in Glan. The “tinolang” native chicken that was served according to her was the best soup she had ever tasted. She was thankful to the hospitality of the people of Sarangani. For more news and updates about Sarangani, please visit www.sarangani.gov.ph (Russel Delvo/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

“Builders of peace”, Sagip Kapamilya help Sarangani village

2012-01-29T16:11:00.000-08:00

By COCOY SEXCION

MALUNGON, Sarangani (December 10, 2011) - A two-classroom school building was inaugurated and formally turned over Friday (December 9) to the community of Lamlifew, a Blaan village.

It was also the launching of a 120-day feeding program for the pupils of Lamlifew Elementary School.

The projects were carried out through the concerted effort of the Armed Forces of the Philippines through the National Development Support Command (NADESCOM), ABS-CBN Foundation’s Sagip Kapamilya “Gusto kong mag aral” program, Municipal Government of Malungon, Department of Education and the Provincial Government of Sarangani.

The P800,000 school building for Lamlifew Elementary School and another school building in barangay San Jose in General Santos were part of the 12 school buildings completed nationwide by soldiers from NADESCOM, said Capt. William Rodriguez, public affairs officer of Sarangani-based 1002nd Brigade.

The turnover was witnessed by Major General Carlos Holganza, commander of NADESCOM; Tina Monzon Palma, program director of ABS-CBN Sagip Kapamilya; Governor Migs Dominguez, Mayor Reynaldo Constantino, Vice Governor Steve Solon, Congressman Manny Pacquiao’s chief of staff Bren Evangelio, and other stakeholders who contributed for the completion of the project.

General Holganza thanked the community for the support given to the construction soldiers. “Without you, we will not be here. I hope we will be able to continue our relationships in this way. We are here to serve and we will continue to serve,” Holganza said.

“From managers of wars, our soldiers now are builders of peace,” Holganza added.

Vice Governor Solon lauded the efforts of the community for effectively managing the community-based living museum.

“The governor put in assistance initially, and it was the community itself that is running the museum and the tourism aspect of the community,” Solon said.

Sitio Lamlifew was officially declared as living museum of Blaans during its launch in November 2008.

“In behalf of the province, maraming salamat to Sagip Kapamilya,” Governor Migs Dominguez told the crowd.

“Ngayong araw na ito, meron isang makasaysayang nangyari sa inyong lugar. Nagkaroon ng isang dalawang classroom at ito ay itinayo ng mga taong nagmamahal sa inyo. (Today, a historic event happened. A two classroom building is constructed in your place by people who loves you),” said Tina Monzon Palma.

Palma said that part of the event is the launching of a 120-day feeding program for the pupils of Lamlifew Elementary School through the Bantay Bata 163.

Palma also promised to give rewards to pupils who will gain weight of at least five kilograms after the feeding program. For more news and updates about Sarangani, please visit www.sarangani.gov.ph (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Turn over of symbolic key for Sarangani school

2012-01-29T16:10:00.000-08:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (December 9, 2011) - Tina Monzon Palma, program director of ABS-CBN Sagip Kapamilya and Bantay Bata 163, turns over the symbolic key to Grade VI pupil Cheann Taguse during the inauguration of one unit two-classroom building and launching of feeding program for Lamlifew Elementary School from ABS-CBN Foundation. For more news and updates about Sarangani, please visit www.sarangani.gov.ph (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE

Token of appreciation from Sarangani

2012-01-29T16:09:00.000-08:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (December 9, 2011) - Tina Monzon Palma is delighted as she receives an authentic hand-woven malong (tube skirt) from Malapatan as a token of appreciation of the provincial government during the inauguration of one unit two-classroom building and launching of feeding program for Lamlifew Elementary School from ABS-CBN Foundation. Looking on are Governor Migs Dominguez, Board Member Eleanor Saguiguit, Vice Governor Steve Solon and Mayor Reynaldo Constantino. For more news and updates about Sarangani, please visit www.sarangani.gov.ph (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Ribbon cutting for Sarangani classroom

2012-01-29T16:08:00.000-08:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (December 9, 2011) - Governor Migs Dominguez, Mayor Reynaldo Constantino, head teacher Romeo Bogador, Board Member Nene Saguiguit and Tina Monzon Palma lead the cutting of ribbon Friday, December 9, during the inauguration of a two-classroom building and launching of feeding program for Lamlifew Elementary School from ABS-CBN Foundation. For more news and updates about Sarangani, please visit www.sarangani.gov.ph (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Gifts from ABS-CBN Foundation to Sarangani

2012-01-29T16:06:00.002-08:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (December 9, 2011) - Soldiers help out in the distribution of gifts for Lamlifew children from ABS-CBN Foundation Friday, December 9, during the inauguration of a two-classroom building and launching of feeding program for Lamlifew Elementary School from ABS-CBN Foundation. For more news and updates about Sarangani, please visit www.sarangani.gov.ph (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Gift giving for Sarangani kids

2012-01-29T16:06:00.000-08:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (December 9, 2011) - Major General Carlos Holganza, commander of the National Development Support Command, and Tina Monzon Palma, program director of ABS-CBN Sagip Kapamilya and Bantay Bata 163, lead the gift giving to children of Lamlifew Friday, December 9, during the inauguration of a two-classroom building and launching of feeding program for Lamlifew Elementary School from ABS-CBN Foundation. For more news and updates about Sarangani, please visit www.sarangani.gov.ph (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Builders of peace in Sarangani

2012-01-29T16:04:00.002-08:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (December 9, 2011) - Soldiers from the National Development Support Command who constructed the two-classroom building for Lamlifew Elementary School from Sagip Kapamilya of the ABS-CBN Foundation are given due recognition at the inauguration ceremony Friday, December 9. For more news and updates about Sarangani, please visit www.sarangani.gov.ph (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Token for Vice President Binay

2012-01-29T16:04:00.000-08:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (November 25, 2011) – Vice President Jejomar Binay receives a tribal vest as token from the province given to him by Governor Migs Dominguez (right), Congressman Manny Pacquiao (2nd right) and Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon (left) as the guest of honor in the celebration of 19th Foundation Anniversary and 9th MunaTo Festival, Friday, November 25. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE/Bon-Bon Quiño)

Tradition takes center stage at MunaTo Festival

2012-01-29T16:03:00.000-08:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (November 24, 2011) - A Blaan showcase of tradition like the dressing up of horses, or fyu kura, highlights the opening of MunaTo Festival celebration 2011 Thursday, November 24, at the Capitol grounds. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Congressman Pacquiao escorted by Fyu Kuras

2012-01-29T16:01:00.000-08:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (November 24, 2011) - The float of Sarangani Congressman Manny Pacquiao is escorted by Fyu Kuras or dressed-up horses during the hero’s welcome enroute to the opening of MunaTo Festival 2011. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

MunaTo 2011 launches “Sarangani, your adventure” brand

2012-01-29T16:00:00.000-08:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (November 24, 2011) - MunaTo Festival opened today (November 24) the four-day festivity in a combined cultural and adventure concept to launch the trademark, “Sarangani, your adventure.”

Board Member Eleonor “Nene” Saguiguit said this is to promote the province being “the tourism hub” in this part of Mindanao.

MunaTo Festival kicked-off today and culminates on November 27.

“We want something that is grand, something that would surpass the previous festivals. And we decided that it will be a different event (this year) to launch the Sarangani brand,” Saguiguit said.

“While we celebrate, gusto nating i-promote and ating turismo and opportunities for investments,” she added.

She disclosed that “Sarangani as a tourism hub has already taken off,” as supported by acting Sarangani Tourism and Investment Promotions Center (STIPC) coordinator Larry Asparin that tourist arrivals have been increasing since 2005.

An increase of tourist arrivals has been noted from the 16,080 in 2009 to 26,100 in 2010 as reported by the STIPC.

The “Sarangani, your adventure” brand would create a name recall for Sarangani “as we wanted to make a mark in the tourism industry right now,” Asparin said.

“We (Sarangani) have a combination of tourism resources like the world-class dive sites, white-sand beach resorts, Manny Pacquiao, water tubing, and a lot more wherein others may only have two or three but they do not have this package of resources,” Asparin said.

Asparin also pointed out tourism employment was rising as tourism activities in Sarangani were picking up too. “It encompasses basically all sectors, even fisherfolk and the transport sector, among others.” (Beverly C. Paoyon/ SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

UNICEF horses ensure better early learning services in Sarangani

2012-01-29T15:58:00.000-08:00

By BEVERLY C. PAOYON

ALABEL, Sarangani (November 23, 2011) - The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has donated additional 13 horses to ease transport in holding home-based pre-school education in the hinterlands of Sarangani.

This is the second batch after the distribution of 10 horses in February this year for the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) program of the province.

Home-based education for 3-5 year old children is commonly patronized in Sarangani in relatively rural and upland communities where pre-school facilities are lacking because of geographical distance.

The use of horses is a strategy in Sarangani to increase the participation rate of children, from 63 percent in 2010 to the 70 percent target this year.

Racquel Panal, assistant provincial social welfare and development officer, hoped this would also increase the number of children to benefit especially in remote communities “wherein services are very mean already at halos hindi na maabot ng ating mga service providers (barely reached by service providers).”

Supervised Neighborhood Play (SNP) workers usually take a half-day walk just to reach these communities.

Panal also lamented the minimal honorarium the SNP workers receive that could barely suffice for the daily fare.

Mila Labuan would take a four-hour motorcycle ride everyday to reach the site of her assignment in sitio Amlitos, barangay Kihan in Mapalatan. With the horse given her now, she said it would be easier for her to reach the site and can attend whenever there would be meetings at the Poblacion.

“Karon nga naa na ECCD materials, patuonon gyud nako ang mga bata kay naa na sila magamit (Now the kids have ECCD materials to learn from),” because before she would just make her own improvised learning materials for the 60 children she is teaching.

“Some of our workers are already serving five years.” With the ECCD on horse, she said they would be able to deliver the “best services to the children in the communities.”

The total 110 SNP sites established at far-flung barangays in Sarangani cater to more than 4,000 disadvantaged children mostly from the indigenous people.

The horses were turned-over with complete accessories like saddle, nylon rope and native horse backpacks where SNP workers would use to carry ECCD package for their classes like toys, reading and art materials, musical instruments, toothbrush, and utensils.

Panal said all these learning materials are intended to hone these children “for their total development.”

Board Member Hermie Galzote said this strategy (ECCD on horse) would be an effective motivation in providing “services to our children particularly to the lumads (IPs).”

Daan Suyan barangay councilor Fatima Hidalgo said the horse is a big boost in educating the children being the future leaders of our nation.

“Ang atong gobyerno naga tan-aw gyud diay sa kalisod sa atong lugar labi na sa mga bukid nga lugar. Dili nato ikalilong, kinahanglanon nato ni siya ilabi na sa atong mga bata nga gataas ang quality sa education karon (The local government is indeed sincere in poverty alleviation especially in the hinterlands. It cannot be denied that we need such programs for quality education),” she said.

The horses that were turned-over on Monday (November 21) benefited barangays Paraiso and Pag-asa of Alabel, barangays Daan Suyan, Lun Padidu, Kihan, Kinam, and Libi of Malapatan, and barangay Panamin of Malungon. (Beverly C. Paoyon/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

ECCD worker receives teaching tools

2012-01-29T15:56:00.000-08:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (November 23, 2011) – A Supervised Neighborhood Play (SNP) worker receives learning materials for her pupils from UNICEF during the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) turnover of materials Monday, November 21. Thirteen horses were also given to SNP teachers so that they can reach far-flung villages with their teaching tools. (Russel Delvo/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Tribal Day celebration

2011-11-21T13:22:00.001-08:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (November 21, 2011) - (L-R) Town First Lady Roselyn Constantino, Mayor Reynaldo ‘Bong’ Constantino and Gov. Migs Dominguez watch the “Ede'l” play-and-dance competition staged Friday by Blaan and Tagakaulo contestants to highlight the culmination of the two-day Tribal Day celebration (November 17-18) in Malungon. Also in photo are NCIP director Timuey Lim P. Wong and Board Member Virgilio Tobias. (JoJo Gocotano/MALUNGON INFORMATION OFFICE)

Tribal Day beauty pageant winners

2011-11-21T13:21:00.002-08:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (November 21, 2011) - The Blaan and Tagakaulo ladies who won in the 1st ethnic beauty pageant dubbed as “Manenggeya na Libun”, meaning most beautiful girl, pose to celebrate Tribal Day in Malungon. They are, (L-R) 1st runner up Mary Mae Mayo, 2nd runner up Lovely Basoc, 4th runner up Michele Tumandan, chosen first Manenggeya na Libun ’11 – Ms. Angelica Pane and 3rd runner up Bea Acupan. (JoJo Gocotano/MALUNGON INFORMATION OFFICE)

Horse fight as part of culture

2011-11-21T13:21:00.000-08:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (November 21, 2011) – Stallions fight over a female horse during a series of horse fights which highlighted the celebration of Malungon town’s 4th–year Tribal Day. Supervised horse fighting is part of indigenous peoples’ culture and is allowed by cultural authorities. (JoJo Gocotano/MALUNGON INFORMATION OFFICE)

Tribal council leads watershed project

2011-11-21T13:19:00.001-08:00

By COCOY SEXCION

MAASIM, Sarangani (November 21, 2011) - Governor Migs Dominguez, Mayor Jose Zamorro and Joel Aton of Sarangani Energy Corporation had a turnover of seedlings to the Municipal Tribal Council here for distribution to indigenous people (IP) families living in the upland barangays of Nomoh, Kablacan and Amsipit.

The seedlings would be planted to boost the watershed development program of the municipality.

In a turnover rites Monday (November 21) at the municipal grounds during the flag raising ceremony, officials said thousands of seedlings were set for planting this year.

“For the remaining months of this year, we will be distributing a total of 17,500 seedlings of rubber, coconut, jackfruit and coffee to 50 families from Barangays Nomoh, Amsipit and Kablacan,” said Joel Aton, project assurance manager of Sarangani Energy Corporation (SEC).

“This is part of the commitment of Sarangani Energy Corporation to rehabilitate watersheds and to provide livelihood support to Maasim highlanders and tribal communities and each family will receive seedlings good for one hectare which can provide an added income of around P3,000 to P5,000 pesos a month upon reaching its productive stage,” Aton added

The project was supported by the provincial and municipal government, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Philippine National Police, 73rd Infantry Battalion and Alcantara Foundation.

“I know this project will change the life of our people. The tribal people will cooperate and support this project because we know that this project will give us some livelihood and at the same time will help us restore all the forests that are gone in the mountain,” Municipal Tribal Council chief Benjamin Donato said.

Mayor Jose Zamorro also urged his constituents to plant trees.

“Supposed to be, we Maasimians are the ones who should initiate this reforestation project. This is everybody’s concern. For me, the only solution to the problem of global warming is plant more trees. So I thank SEC for this project,” the mayor said.

On the other hand, Vice Mayor Utto Salem Cutan appealed to those who are against the construction of the 200-megawatt coal-fired power plant of Sarangani Energy Corporation in Maasim set for its groundbreaking this November 25, to just give them a chance to welcome and embrace investments and development for their municipality. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Message of support

2011-11-21T11:07:00.000-08:00

MAASIM, Sarangani (November 21, 2011) - Governor Migs Dominguez calls on barangay and municipal officials not be the last but always strive to be the best as he speaks at the flag raising ceremony and ceremonial turnover of planting materials to Maasim Municipal Tribal council Monday, November 21, at the municipal grounds. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Fruit seedlings for watershed development project

2011-11-21T11:06:00.000-08:00

MAASIM, Sarangani (November 21, 2011) - Joel Aton (extreme left), Sarangani Energy Corporation (SEC) project assurance manager; Noli Cajutol, SEC consultant on carbon sink project (4th left); and Governor Migs Dominguez turnover planting materials to the Maasim Municipal Tribal council during the ceremonial turnover for the 17,500 seedlings of coffee, jackfruit, rubber and coconut for the Maasim watershed development project. The reforestation and livelihood project is initiated by SEC and supported by the provincial and municipal government, 73rd Infantry Battalion and Alcantara Foundation. Also in photo are (from right) Seven Hills Barangay Captain Edwin Reducto, Nomoh Barangay Captain Lazarus Limpong, Kanalo Barangay Captain Jumbra Tama, Vice Mayor Uttoh Salem Cutan and Mayor Jose Zamorro. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) program uses horses

2011-11-21T11:05:00.000-08:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (November 21, 2011) - Supervised Neighborhood Play (SNP) workers with their newly-acquired horses pose at the Capitol before going to their respective barangays after the formal turnover of additional 13 ECCD horses for workers from municipalities of Alabel, Malapatan and Malungon Monday, November 21. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Ethnic wrestling (S’buno)

2011-11-18T16:37:00.000-08:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (November 18, 2011) – Locals closely watch S’buno, a wrestling competition for the indigenous people (Blaan and Tagakaulo) during the culmination of the 4th–year Tribal Day celebration on November 17-18 in Malungon. (JoJo Gocotano/MALUNGON INFORMATION OFFICE)

All systems go for Sarangani’s Nov. 24-27 MunaTo Festival

2011-11-18T16:35:00.000-08:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (November 17, 2011)- Organizers of the upcoming 9th MunaTo Festival said preparations are all set for the extravaganza of cultural events, exhibits, and crowd-drawing competitions guaranteed to stir excitement over this year’s celebration.

MunaTo Festival is a celebration honoring the first people and leaders of Sarangani.

MunaTo was derived from the native vernacular meaning “unang tao” or “first people”, the early inhabitants of Sarangani who passed on a rich cultural heritage.

MunaTo also refers to the makers of the 2000-year old anthropomorphic burial jars discovered in Maitum that are now in the National Museum.

As a tribute to the pioneering leaders of the province, MunaTo is a celebration of their efforts to spur development in Sarangani which is sustained up to this day.

Sarangani is rich with the local culture and tradition of the Blaan, Tboli, Manobo, Ubo, Kalagan, and Muslim tribes who succeeded in preserving the cultural heritage and the craftsmanship that are reflective of their respective culture.

This year’s festival is set on November 24-27 with activities lined up to showcase Sarangani’s “history, culture and resources.”

Acting coordinator of Sarangani Tourism and Investment Promotion Center (STIPC) Larry Asparin anticipated that “sounds and colors” with a festive mood would dominate the forthcoming MunaTo.

He expected a huge attendance this year compared to the previous celebrations because activities were properly screened to attract more people.

A considerable increase of tourists has been noted from the 16,080 in 2009 to 26,100 in 2010 as reported by the STIPC.

MunaTo Fun Run: “A Run Against Global Warming” from the Capitol grounds to barangay Maribulan in Alabel would open up the festival. Male and female runners of all ages are invited to join with prizes at stake for both male and female categories of P1,000 - 1st prize, P750 for 2nd prize, and P500 for the 3rd prize.

A hero’s welcome for the internationally acclaimed boxing icon and Sarangani Representative Manny Pacquiao from his recent victory in Las Vegas would also be staged on November 24.

The street dance on November 26 is an open competition which the organizer proposed bigger prizes this time of P100,000; P75,000 and P50,000 respectively for the champion, 1st and 2nd placers. A P12,000 consolation prizes would also be given.

The cheerdance competition, dubbed as “Sayaw Hugyaw sa Kalinaw”, is giving away prizes of P45,000; P30,000 and P20,000 for the champion, 1st and 2nd and a consolation of P10,000 each for the non-winning entries.

Other events worth watching are the cultural exhibits, Fabli Gu Ni (municipal showcase), Photo Exhibit, Moro Pagingadan and Kadtigi sa Kapangiluto (Moro Cottages and Traditional Delicacies), Wall Climbing, Zip Line, Karnabal sa Kapitolyo, Pearl of Sarangani Pageant, Motocross, Eco-Trek, Battle of the Bands, concert featuring Cueshe, street party and fireworks display. (Beverly C. Paoyon/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

2011-11-15T22:30:00.000-08:00

"WELCOME TO MUNATO FESTIVAL 2011 AND 19TH FOUNDATION ANNIVERSARY OF SARANGANI. NOV. 24-27 AT THE PROVINCIAL CAPITOL IN ALABEL. MunaTo was derived from the native vernacular meaning “unang tao” or “first people”, the early inhabitants of Sarangani who passed on a rich cultural heritage. It also refers to the makers of the 2000-year old anthropomorphic burial jars discovered in Maitum that are now in the National Museum. As a tribute to the pioneering leaders of the province, MunaTo is a celebration of their efforts to spur development in Sarangani which is sustained up to this day." Information from My Sarangani Facebook Post

Women’s association makes bags for sale

2011-11-10T18:17:00.000-08:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (October 20, 2011) – Municipal Administrator Vicky Grafilo (middle), representing Mayor Corazon Grafilo, buys bags made out of discarded promotional tarps during the graduation ceremony of the Tribal Women’s Association on skills development on bag-weaving and -making at Sitio Bolol Kilot in barangay Kawas. Grafilo committed to give one unit of industrial sewing machine during the closing ceremony of the training. The four-day training was facilitated by Indigenous Peoples Development Program (IPDP) in partnership with SMART Communications, Inc. (Romina Rabina/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

IP achiever at indigenous people’s thanksgiving day

2011-10-30T13:47:00.000-07:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (October 29, 2011) - Anne Edday delivers her inspirational speech before indigenous people (IP) from all over the province during the provincial celebration of national indigenous people’s thanksgiving day Friday, October 28, at the Capitol gymnasium. Edday, a Blaan educator who helped implement education reforms in Sarangani, was given the recognition as IP achiever. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

IP master sings original composition

2011-10-30T13:46:00.000-07:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (October 29, 2011) - Bae Herminia Lacna, an IP master, sings her own composition about the beauty of Sarangani during the provincial celebration of national indigenous people’s (IP) thanksgiving day Friday, October 28, at the Capitol gymnasium. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Pig catching contest

2011-10-30T13:45:00.000-07:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (October 29, 2011) - Blaan students of Mindanao State University join the pig catching contest as one of the tribal sports organized in celebration of the national tribal day celebration Friday, October 28, at the Capitol gymnasium. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Sarangani celebrates National IP Day

2011-10-30T13:44:00.001-07:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (October 29, 2011) - Indigenous people (IP) from all over the province gather Friday, October 28, at the Capitol gymnasium to celebrate the National Indigenous People’s Day. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Tribal archery competition

2011-10-30T13:43:00.000-07:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (October 29, 2011) - Osmena Moyak, a Blaan archer from Maasim, was awarded as the champion of the tribal archery competition Friday, October 28, during the tribal sports as part of the provincial celebration of national indigenous people’s thanksgiving day at the Capitol grounds. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Tribal thanksgiving day opening

2011-10-30T13:41:00.000-07:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (October 29, 2011) - Lemuhen Performing Arts lead the opening of the provincial celebration of national indigenous people’s thanksgiving day Friday, October 28, at the Capitol gymnasium. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Sarangani celebrates IP month

2011-10-30T13:38:00.000-07:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (October 30, 2011) – Sarangani celebrated Indigenous Peoples (IPs) Month this year purposely to recognize, protect and promote the rights of IPs within the agenda of national unity and development in relation to the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (RA 8371).

The celebration recognized particularly cultural artist achievers, IP outstanding teachers, and the partners of Sarangani Province in its IP program for their contribution to the continuing advocacy on the preservation and promotion of indigenous knowledge system, technology and best practices of the Sarangani IPs.

Annalie Edday, a pure-blooded Blaan who spearheads Quality Education for Sarangani Today as program manager, was among the awardees.

The office of the Indigenous People’s Development Program (IPDP) explained Edday was awarded being an IP professional “who enthusiastically and genuinely inclined to bring value and larger positive impact to her fellow Blaans by engaging herself in bringing quality in the uplands wherein IPs reside.”

In 2008, Edday was among the youth representatives of the Philippines to the International Youth Forum conducted by the Initiatives of Change in Indonesia.

In 2009, she underwent five-week leadership training in the United States being one of the top three Young Mindanao Leaders chosen by the US Department of State. In the same year, she represented the Philippines in the International Youth Exchange Program in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Edday is again one of the top nine young leaders of the country as conferred by Asia Society to represent the Philippines to the International Summit in New Delhi, India next month.

Edday challenged her tribe “to encourage more leaders and advocates and to encourage as well children to be proud being IPs.”

“We do look forward that from now on wala nay batang IPs nga mangayo ug bugas, wala nay tigulang nga mamatay nalang sa sakit nga wala nakatilaw ug paracetamol, ug wala nay IPs nga dili atimanon sa mga ospital (there will no more be IP children who will beg for rice, no more old and sick IP who will die eventually without having to experience medication even taking paracetamol, and no more IPs brought to hospitals unattended),” Edday hoped as she lamented the plight of her tribe.

“Everyone of us has a right to quality of life. Let us stand up to put integrity for our tribe,” she said.

The event on Friday (October 28) dubbed as “National Indigenous Peoples Thanksgiving Day” was in partnership with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples and the Provincial Tribal Council (PTC) pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 1906 issued in 2009 declaring October as the Indigenous Peoples' Month.

This celebration comes with a manifesto of support from the Sarangani Indigenous Peoples Professionals Association, Inc., PTC, tribal elders, ministers, women, and youth, IP elected officials and mandatory representatives, local government officials, and non-government organizations pursuant to the mandate of the Philippine Constitution and the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act of 1997.

As stated in the manifesto, it “faithfully and conscientiously recognize, promote the rights of indigenous cultural communities, IPs to their ancestral lands, rights to self-governance and empowerment, rights to social justice and human rights and cultural integrity to ensure social and cultural integrity.”

It also committed “to support and bear the faith to preserve our (IP) customary laws, traditional rights, peace building mechanism and processes, compatible with the framework of national unity and development.” (Beverly C. Paoyon/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Acting Governor Solon thanks Bantay Bata 163

2011-10-30T13:37:00.000-07:00

MAASIM, Sarangani (October 30, 2011) – Acting Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon expresses his gratitude to all partners especially the Bantay Bata 163 of ABS-CBN for their support and services to far flung areas of the province in the conduct of community outreach and Bantay Bata 163 Caravan 2011 at sitio Blat Elementary School, Amsipit. The outreach program was co-sponsored by the Congressional Office of Rep. Emmanuel D. Pacquiao. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE/Bon-Bon Quiño)

Hygiene kits from SEC

2011-10-30T13:36:00.000-07:00

MAASIM, Sarangani (October 30, 2011) – Over 300 children of sitio Blat, Amsipit show their hygiene kits from Sarangani Energy Corporation (SEC) during their child-friendly space activity in line with the Bantay Bata 163 Caravan 2011 and community outreach Friday, October 28. The said activity is in partnership with the provincial and municipal government, ABS-CBN Bantay Bata 163, the Congressional Office of Rep. Emmanuel D. Pacquiao, Alcantara Foundation Inc., Marian Movement of Priests, Police Regional Office 12, Family Planning Organization of the Philippines, Socsargen County Hospital, GSC Medical Society, 1002nd Brigade Medical Team, 73rd Infantry Battalion, Alcantara Group of Companies and RD Foundation. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE/Bon-Bon Quiño)

Blaan performers of Amsipit

2011-10-30T13:34:00.000-07:00

MAASIM, Sarangani (October 30, 2011) – Blaan women of barangay Amsipit perform a dance for the visitors who rendered their services for the Bantay Bata 163 Caravan 2011 and community outreach. Over 900 individuals benefited from the outreach program and this activity is in partnership with the provincial and municipal government, ABS-CBN Bantay Bata 163, the Congressional Office of Rep. Emmanuel D. Pacquiao, Alcantara Foundation Inc., Marian Movement of Priests, Police Regional Office 12, Family Planning Organization of the Philippines, Socsargen County Hospital, GSC Medical Society, 1002nd Brigade Medical Team, 73rd Infantry Battalion, Sarangani Energy Corporation, Alcantara Group of Companies and RD Foundation. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE/Bon-Bon Quiño)

Lamlifew GMA video

2011-10-20T13:04:00.000-07:00

Lamlifew Village video documentation by GMA Network

Association gets industrial sewing machine

2011-10-14T14:39:00.000-07:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (October 11, 2011) - Trainor Anunciacion Alam, member of Association of Sarangani Producers (ASAP), tests the brand new industrial sewing machine provided by SMART Communications during the skills development on bag-weaving and -making using old promotional materials Tuesday, October 11. The four-day livelihood training for members of Bolol Kilot Tribal Women’s Association in purok Baybay, barangay Kawas was implemented by the Indigenous Peoples Development Program of the Provincial Governor’s Office. SMART Communications also provided a sealer, honorarium for the trainor, food for the participants for the entire training period and materials for the bag-making and -weaving. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Blaan women train to weave bags

2011-10-14T14:37:00.000-07:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (October 11, 2011) - Members of Bolol Kilot Tribal Women’s Association avail of the four-day training on skills and development bag-weaving and -making using old promotional materials Tuesday, October 11. The training was sponsored by SMART Communications and implemented by the Provincial Governors Office through its Indigenous Peoples Development Program at purok Baybay in barangay Kawas. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Women beading tribal clothes

2011-10-10T15:08:00.001-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (October 10, 2011) – Graduates of the School of Living Tradition (SLT) put beads on tribal clothes as part of their cultural learning during the three-month period of sessions with Tagakaolo cultural masters. They graduated Friday, October 7, at the village of Kityan Daku. The SLT on loom-weaving was a three-month on-site class where 10 Tagakaolo learners were trained by cultural masters in partnership with the Biya na Tagakaolo Megsambok sa Ginawa Association. (Russel Delvo/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Loom-weaving master shows the way

2011-10-10T15:07:00.001-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (October 9, 2011) – A loom-weaving cultural master shows the proper way of weaving to learners of the School of Living Tradition during their graduation rites Friday, October 7, in the village of Kityan Daku. The SLT on loom-weaving was a three-month on-site class where 10 Tagakaolo learners were trained by cultural masters in partnership with the Biya na Tagakaolo Megsambok sa Ginawa Association. (Russel Delvo/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Graduates of loom-weaving at School of Living Tradition

2011-10-10T15:06:00.001-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (October 9, 2011) – Graduates show their
certificates of graduation Friday, October 7, after their three-month
on-site class on loom-weaving at the village of Kityan Daku. The
School of Living Tradition is a process of transferring traditional
skills on Tagakaolo weaving as a way of preserving the culture and
tradition of the tribe. (Russel Delvo/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Provincial Tribal Council chair speaks at School of Living Tradition

2011-10-10T15:05:00.000-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (October 9, 2011) – Datu Edmund Pangilan, chair of the Provincial Tribal Council, speaks at the graduation rites of the School of Living Tradition (SLT) on Tagakaolo loom-weaving Friday, October 7, in the village of Kityan Daku. The SLT on loom-weaving was a three-month on-site class where 10 Tagakaolo learners were trained by cultural masters in partnership with the Biya na Tagakaolo Megsambok sa Ginawa Association. (Russel Delvo/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

1st placer of Saf’kaan dancing contest

2011-09-30T13:45:00.000-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (September 30, 2011) - Malandag National High School is this year's champion for the Safkaan Festival street dancing competition held on Thursday, September 29, at barangay Malandag plaza. The barangay celebrated its abundant farm products from which Saf’kaan Festival was named after. Saf’kaan is the native word for food. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Saf’kaan Festival showdown yield 2nd placer

2011-09-30T13:44:00.001-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (September 30, 2011) – The contingent from Malandag Institute Incorporated performs for the final showdown of Saf’kaan Festival street dancing competition Thursday, September 29, at barangay Malandag plaza. The group won 2nd place. Saf’kaan is the native word for food. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

The 3rd placer of Saf’kaan dancing contest

2011-09-30T13:43:00.001-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (September 30, 2011) - Elementary pupils of Lower Lamcanal chant as they perform to win 3rd place at the Saf’kaan Festival street dancing competition Thursday, September 29, at the barangay plaza. The barangay celebrated its abundant farm products from which Saf’kaan Festival was named after. Saf’kaan is the native word for food. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Winning float at Saf’kaan Festival

2011-09-30T13:42:00.001-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (September 27, 2011) - Residents and barangay officials pose at the farm products-decorated cart that won 1st place during the “Karo Float Parade” as it highlights the opening of Saf’kaan Festival 2011 at barangay Malandag plaza. (Russel Delvo/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Mayor joins thanksgiving celebration

2011-09-30T13:41:00.001-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (September 27, 2011) - Mayor Reynaldo Constantino delivers his message at the opening program of Saf'kaan Festival 2011 Tuesday, September 27, at barangay Malandag plaza. Saf'kaan which means food, is a thanksgiving celebration for the good harvest of its farmlands. Barangay Malandag is known for its agricultural products and high value crops. (Russel Delvo/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Food carts at Saf’kaan Festival

2011-09-30T13:40:00.001-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (September 27, 2011) – Carts decorated with farm products compete at the “Karo Float Parade” with winners (L-R) 3rd
placer from sitio Lower Lamcanal, 2nd placer from sitio Upper Lamcanal and 1st placer from sitio Buayan. (Russel Delvo/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Barangay marks festival of food harvest

2011-09-30T13:39:00.001-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (September 27, 2011) - Barangay Chair Delia Constantino welcomes guests at the opening program of Saf'kaan Festival 2011 Tuesday, September 27, at barangay Malandag plaza. Saf'kaan, which means food in local parlance, is a thanksgiving celebration for the good harvest of its farmlands. Barangay Malandag is known for its agricultural products and high value crops. (Russel Delvo/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

The hopes in education for Sarangani kids

2011-09-30T13:38:00.001-07:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (September 28, 2011) - Anne Edday, project manager of QUEST (Quality Education for Sarangani Today), presents the challenges and hopes in education to participants of the Education Summit for the municipality of Alabel Wednesday, September 28, at the municipal gymnasium. Stakeholders have been pursuing the education agenda thru commitment and accountability with the targets of increasing the participation rate, completion rate, and achievement rate for elementary pupils by the year 2013. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

School of Living Tradition on Tagakaolo Loom Weaving

2011-09-28T15:07:00.000-07:00

The School of Living Tradition (SLT) is one of the projects under the Indigenous Peopled Development Program (IPDP) of Sarangani. The aim is to preserve the culture by teaching it to the next generation.

Photo shown here is courtesy of the IPDP c/o Toto Tirando for the SLT on the Tagakaolo Loom Weaving.

Indigenous Peoples Development Program (IPDP) update

2011-09-28T14:58:00.000-07:00

I.Training on Bag Weaving and Making using Up-cycling materials funded by SMART Communications, Inc will be on October 3-8, 2011 at Sitio Bolol Kilot, Kawas, Alabel. Recipient of this training is the Bolol Kilot Tribal Women's Association.

II. Maitum Tribal Women's Association is a recipient of Mindanao Rural Development Programme (MRDP) for their inland fishery project in Barangay Wali, Maitum.

III. Provincial Celebration of National IP Thanksgiving Day will be on October 28, 2011 at Provincial Capitol, Alabel. Proposed activities are:

1) Recognition of Cultural Masters/Artists, IP Achievers & Outstanding IP Teachers
2) Food and Craft Exhibit
3) Cultural Performances and Tribal Sports Competition
4) Ceremonial signing of covenant of support for IP programs
5) Gala Night for partners, public officials, awardees and tribal leaders

Visit to Lemuhen Performing Arts Group

2011-09-24T13:30:00.000-07:00

The Lemuhen Performing Arts Group from Badtasan, Kiamba is a recipient of School of Living Tradition on Tboli Musical Instrument Playing and Dancing funded by the Provincial Government of Sarangani through the Indigenous Peoples Development Program (IPDP). The IPDP was joined by Toby Martin in this effort of cultural documentation.

Photos courtesy of Toto Tirando, IPDP.

Trekkers reach 70-foot high waterfalls

2011-09-08T13:28:00.000-07:00

MAITUM, Sarangani (September 8, 2011) – Mountaineers reach Dakeol Falls (1st tier) over the weekend. It is estimated to be 70 feet high. The mountaineers were not able to reach the 2nd and 3rd tiers because of time constraints but discovered many breathtaking sceneries in sitio Angko, barangay Batian. (Beth Ramos/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

Maitum mountaineers explore town’s jungle

2011-09-08T13:26:00.002-07:00

MAITUM, Sarangani (September 8, 2011) – Municipal employees and local mountaineers take time to pose while on their way to sitio Angko in barangay Batian which is the starting point of their mountain expedition over the weekend. The trekkers, looking for more sites that would fit the “Sarangani your adventure” tourism brand of the province, explored caves and immersed with the Tboli indigenous people who served them local food. (Beth Ramos/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

Giant staircase awes trekkers

2011-09-08T13:26:00.000-07:00

MAITUM, Sarangani (September 8, 2011) – A part of the natural giant staircase made of rock is one of the passageways leading to numerous waterfalls found in sitio Angko, barangay Batian. Mountaineers followed the source of the water in order to find Dakeol Falls, a three-tiered waterfalls still untouched by tourists. (Beth Ramos/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

Above the mist in Maitum

2011-09-08T13:24:00.001-07:00

MAITUM, Sarangani (September 8, 2011) – A trekker surveys one of the breath-taking sceneries of sitio Angko in barangay Batian where you can feel Mother Nature’s soothing embrace above the mist, warming the truly human heart. Municipal employees and local mountaineers hiked to sitio Angko in barangay Batian over the weekend, looking for more sites that would fit the “Sarangani your adventure” tourism brand of the province. The trekkers explored caves and immersed with the Tboli indigenous people who served them local food. (Beth Ramos/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

2011-09-07T17:06:00.000-07:00

This T'boli woman demonstrates how she chews a certain bark (instead of a betel nut), ikmo, and other herbal plants. What's interesting about it is that she is chewing tree barks. The tree bark has a flavor and the juice in the bark releases the red pigmenu in the saliva. According to those who have tried it, it's refreshing!

Photos and information courtesy of Beth Ramos of LGU-Maitum

Top young Filipinos picked for Asia leaders program

2011-09-07T10:02:00.000-07:00

The Asia Society, a renowned international organization based in New York that aims to strengthen understanding among the peoples of the Asia Pacific region, has selected nine Filipinos to be part of this year’s batch to the Asia 21 Young Leaders program.

The program aspires to develop the next generation of leaders who would take up the challenge of collaborating on creative solutions to address national and regional issues.

The honorees will take part in the Asia 21 Young Leaders Summit where Asia Society gathers the top 200 young leaders of the Asia Pacific region. This year’s summit will be held in November in New Delhi, India.

This year’s batch includes lawyer Paulino Salvador Leachon, lawyer Lesley Jeanne Cordero, Maria Doris Dumlao, Jeffrey Tarayao, Alvin Cloyd Dakis, Michael Sandejas, Soledad Sylvia Nubla-Lee, Annalie Edday and Joy Anya Lim.

Leachon and Cordero represent the government sector. Cordero was chosen for her contributions as the assistant secretary for legislative affairs in the Presidential Communications Operations Office, while Leachon was picked for his effective management and policy implementations as the mayor of Calapan City.

Nonprofit sector

Nubla-Lee and Edday represent the nonprofit sector with Nubla-Lee being cited for her work in providing access to quality higher education for underprivileged public high school students through Pathways to Higher Education. Edday was cited for her advocacy of improving educational systems in the rural areas through programs such as Quality Education in Sarangani Today (Quest).

Tarayao was chosen for his achievements in the field of corporate social responsibility (CSR) being the chief CSR officer of Meralco and, previously, of Globe Telecom.

Dakis, founding chair and national president of Alliance of Young Leaders and Advocates International Inc., was selected for his advocacies in health and human rights. Lim, a social entrepreneur from Cebu, founded Anthill Fabric Gallery which promotes cultural preservation of the Philippines’ weaving industry.

Dumlao was honored for her work as a multiawarded business reporter of the Philippine Daily Inquirer. Sandejas represents the arts and culture sector who uses his films as a means to shed light on marginalized sectors of society such as the deaf.

Former Filipino fellows include education advocate Ching Jorge, former National Youth Commission chair Bam Aquino, DNA forensics scientist Dr. Ma. Corazon de Ungria, human rights lawyer Damcelle Torres-Cortez, social entrepreneur Lt. Col. Dennis Eclarin, IPVG’s Enrique Gonzalez and Mayor Jeng Reyes of Alicia, Isabela.

To select this year’s delegates, the Asia Society in the Philippines screened more than 100 Filipinos between the ages of 25 and 40. They came from various sectors such as government, academe, media, business, health, nonprofit, military, and culture and the arts.

The honorees were chosen based on their leadership experience, achievements in their chosen field, impact of their leadership, and service to the country. The program is supported by Metro Pacific Investment Corp.

Source: http://globalnation.inquirer.net/7823/top-young-filipinos-picked-for-asia-leaders-program

Photo courtesy of QUEST Program.

Distribution of School Supplies to IP Pupils in Lamlifew

2011-09-07T09:55:00.000-07:00

This project is in partnership with Read-to-SMART of SMART Communications together with private individuals.

Distribution of School Supplies to IP Pupils in Lamlifew

2011-09-07T09:50:00.000-07:00

This project is in partnership with Read-to-SMART of SMART Communications together with private individuals.

Information Education Campaign for Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA)

2011-09-07T09:47:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the Indigenous Peoples Development Program (IPDP) staff for facilitating this information education among our fellow tribal folks.

Barangay Kihan uplands

2011-09-07T09:41:00.000-07:00

This documentation resulted to identification of 106 Blaan Upland Rice Varieties in Barangay Kihan, Malapatan in partnership with Mindanao State University-Science Department, General Santos City; Barangay Council and the Blaan upland rice growers of Kihan.

Upland rice fields of Kihan, Malapatan, Sarangani Province

2011-09-07T09:37:00.001-07:00

Upland rice grains of Kihan, Malapatan, Sarangani Province

2011-09-07T09:32:00.000-07:00

Tribal song

2011-08-30T12:23:00.001-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (August 30, 2011) - Tagakaolo artists render a tribal song during the last day of a two-day tribal assembly Tuesday, August 30, at barangay San Roque gymnasium. The assembly was organized by the Biya na Tagakaolo Megsambok sa Ginawa Association, Inc. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Tagakaolo musicians

2011-08-30T12:22:00.002-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (August 30, 2011) - Tagakaolo men with their tribal musical instruments perform during the culmination of a two-day tribal assembly Tuesday, August 30, at barangay San Roque gymnasium. The assembly sought to set up the structure of the Tagakaolo tribe in implementing customary laws. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Assembly of Tagakaolo tribe in Sarangani

2011-08-30T12:22:00.000-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (August 30, 2011) - A Tagakaolo lass performs the “sword dance” during the culmination of a two-day tribal assembly Tuesday, August 30, at barangay San Roque gymnasium. The Tagakaolo tribe gathered to preserve and strengthen tribal governance and customary laws passed on from generation to generation. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Anne with pupils

2011-08-26T14:44:00.000-07:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (August 24, 2011) – Annalie Edday (center) enjoys an afternoon chat with pupils of Kiangkos Primary School after an eight-hour trek following mountain trails and river crossings on July 22, 2009. The Quality Education for Sarangani Today (QUEST), where Anne is program manager, conducted an educational tour “Making Little Dreams Possible” to 30 indigenous people school children from New Canaan and Kiangkos Elementary Schools to General Santos City’s airport, wharf, seaport, malls, schools, Sarangani Capitol building and other big infrastructures. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Education advocate looks back, inspires more

2011-08-26T14:43:00.000-07:00

By BEVERLY CABABAT-PAOYON

ALABEL, Sarangani (August 24, 2011) - As a child, Anne sourced out money to buy her favorite candy caramel by plucking kangkong leaves in the ponds and selling them from house to house. But one afternoon as she was vending the vegetables, a heavy downpour rushed her home still pocket-empty.

Annalie Edday, one of the nine Asia 21 Philippines Young Leaders who will represent the country to the international conference in New Delhi by November, was amused recalling her childhood 20 years back when she cried out of her childish frustration of not being able to generate even a single peso to buy the candy she always craved for. But it was this thought to be insignificant episode in her life that made her promise to finish schooling.

Anne is a pure blooded Blaan raised in a traditional way their tribe does. She was born of a very poor family and the youngest of eight.

Her father was a tenant of a vast land claimed to be an ancestral domain of the Blaans which later on imperiled their lives. Her brother was shot to death, making the whole family leave Landan, Polomolok, South Cotabato the day before Christmas.

While they were trying to start a new life in the original place of her parents in Malungon her sister died in a bus accident the following year. She was in fifth grade that time. Life became even bitter for them. Her father thought they were cursed that whose child of him finishes college will die - a provocation that drove her father to withdraw support to the rest of his children who were still studying.

Yet Anne said this never let her lose hope and continued to stay in school. Then she smiled but tears eventually fell down to her cheeks as she was saying “I could still remember I always receive awards since kindergarten but it was only that I was in Grade 6 that I was able to have new set of clothes.”

Anne found solace from friends in high school when she needed to borrow a pair of shoes and clothes. Yet, it was enjoyable for her instead. “I needed to move forward and not just dwell on the problem. I needed to continue to go forward and achieve my dream because I don’t want to sell kangkong for the rest of my life!”

Before she could have her capping, it was awful for her to shift into education because her monthly scholarship stipend of P2,000 as a nursing student couldn’t anymore cope with the extra expenses in school for projects and other contributions. Her family, too, was just hard-up that she could not demand something her family couldn’t afford to give.

She was a scholar of Foundation for Development thru Education Inc. run by the family of Governor Migs Dominguez.

As a nursing student Anne used to be within the top 5 rank but after she shifted she lost the interest and started to have grades below 2. In short, she graduated but without much love for her course.

It was when Synergeia, a non-profit organization, came to Sarangani and initiated education reforms that Governor Migs gave Anne the command to lead Aral Tayo project before it became Quality Education for Sarangani Today (QUEST). QUEST is Sarangani’s local initiative of collaborating with community stakeholders to improve delivery of basic education. The realization came later that she love already what she’d been doing as it also gave her the avenue to inspire and communicate with her fellow Indigenous People (IP).

After coming back from a one-month training in Illinois and Indianapolis, USA, being hailed as one of the top young leaders in 2009 under the Philippine Youth Leadership Program, Anne got many offers from abroad and private companies but her passion and dedication made her stay in Sarangani.

“There are still so many things to be done yet,” Anne said.

She started in QUEST as a neophyte and now she feels greater accountability with the public school system where it was previously the sole concern of the Department of Education to look into.

Now she felt somehow fulfilled to have contributed in the process that many IP children will graduate as this poignant plight of her tribe of being less noticed and attributed to as “no read, no write” and the most impoverished had challenged her to do more for them.

When there were times Anne felt like quitting, the sad plight of many of her tribesmen are into gets her going instead. She would hike several hills and cross rivers to reach remote communities where the tribe could hardly eat three meals a day and the ailing would die eventually without seeing a doctor or perhaps, because they haven’t come across yet with the idea of what a hospital is.

Anne lamented if she and her siblings weren’t given the opportunity to get education, then they might have lived like them too.

With this dilemma on illiteracy, Anne wanted to share her inspiration to free the country from illiteracy which seems to be “a cancer cell causing pains, hardships, and even death to those who are infected with it.”

Illiteracy, as she puts it “is also the main reason of the heartbreaking, frustrating, and ubiquitous poverty that has been oppressing our country for a long time.” And in Sarangani, she recognized the education reform as the best means to draw shared responsibility and accountability from the communities to counter this.

Having been chosen as among the batch of honorees of this year’s Asia 21 Young Leaders, Anne is hoping the network of young leaders will specifically address illiteracy.

Around 200 top young leaders coming all over the Asia-Pacific region the Asia Society is expecting for the summit in November. Asia Society is a prominent New York-based international organization aimed at strengthening relationships and understanding among peoples across the region.

Yet, Anne never stops here and hoped for an even greater network to continue her advocacy. (Beverly Cababat-Paoyon/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Ani ng Sining ng Sarangani: Paghugyaw 2011

2011-08-12T06:36:00.000-07:00

Ani ng Sining ng Sarangani: Paghugyaw 2011 is a provincial celebration of Philippine International Arts Festival and National Arts Month funded by National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) through Lamlifew Tribal Women's Association (LTWA) implemented by the Indigenous Peoples Development Program (IPDP) in partnership with Panlalawigang Pederasyon ng Sangguniang Kabataan (PPSK) and MLGU Glan.

February 28, 2011 at Municipal Plaza, Glan, Sarangani Province.

Father, son in mass wedding

2011-08-11T16:17:00.002-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (August 9, 2011) – Newly-wed Lanosa Quima, 57, (2nd from left) and wife Bleng are flanked by eldest son Ruben, 37, as they pose for a memento during their wedding day. The father and son were among 194 Tagakaolo couples who joined a mass wedding activity under the “Lingap sa Barangay” program of Mayor Reynaldo Constantino in sitio Dalamuan, barangay Lutay on August 4. (JoJo Gocotano/MALUNGON INFORMATION OFFICE).

Gesture of respect

2011-08-11T16:17:00.000-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (August 9, 2011) – After over decades of living-in on a trial marriage, the newly-wed Tagakaolo women kiss the hand of Mayor Reynaldo Constantino as a gesture of thanks and respect following a mass wedding for 194 tribal couples in Dalamuan village. (JoJo Gocotano/MALUNGON INFORMATION OFFICE)

Mass wedding preparation

2011-08-11T16:14:00.001-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (August 9, 2011) – With a caring hand, municipal health officer Dr. Rafaida Garay-Hernandez assists a Tagakaolo bride before a mass wedding in sitio Dalamuan, barangay Lutay, where brides came in their colorful traditional attire. (JoJo Gocotano/ MALUNGON INFORMATION OFFICE)

Mass wedding for IPs held in Sarangani

2011-08-11T16:13:00.001-07:00

By ISAGANI PALMA

MALUNGON, Sarangani (August 9, 2011) – Mayor Reynaldo Constantino presided over a mass wedding ceremony to some 194 Blaan and Tagakaolo couples living in tribal villages of sitio Dalamuan in barangay Lutay.

“I am doing these (tribal weddings) in a desire to legalize the marital status of the underprivileged, specifically those who have been living together, bore siblings, and yet deprived of the different government benefits such as the 4Ps (Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program) and PhilHealth care due to the lack of required documents (marriage contract),” said the half-blooded Blaan mayor of Malungon.

Lydia Erasmo, the town’s local civil registrar, said the event was colorful as the indigenous people (IP) couples came in traditional dress.

“The brides have almost completely adorned themselves with different T’nalak inspired accessories,” Erasmo said.

The mass wedding on August 4 was part of Mayor Constantino’s “Lingap sa Barangay” outreach program by local government offices which provide people living in the far-flung communities with basic and social services.

“Through this undertaking, I would be able to personally assess and take action on my people’s plight. And likewise, let them feel that what they have today is a subsisting, yet firmer kind of leadership that knows no boundaries in the name of public service,” Constantino said.

Dalamuan, a village predominantly by the Tagakaolo tribe which means “people of the mountain tops”, is located on the crest of a mountain along the Davao del Sur and Sarangani border.

Lanosa Quima, 57, after consummating the authenticity of his marriage with wife Bleng, said “it is quite hard to believe that I and my 37-year old eldest son Ruben have just stood right before the mayor to both receive our matrimonial blessings.”

The elder Lanosas, who have been together for over 40 years, are blessed with 10 children. (Isagani P. Palma/MALUNGON INFORMATION OFFICE)

MunaTo Festival 2010 cultural performance

2011-08-06T09:22:00.000-07:00

Artists are from the Lemuhen Cultural Dance Troupe of Sitio Mapangal, Badtasan, Kiamba, Sarangani Province

Photo courtesy of Iner Toguin, IPDP.

Indigenous people scholars study at MSU extension in Sarangani

2011-08-04T12:13:00.000-07:00

By COCOY SEXCION

MALUNGON, Sarangani (August 4, 2011) – A special tertiary extension program of the provincial government for its indigenous people (IP) is now on its third year of operation and would soon have its own campus.

This was disclosed by officials during the general orientation program of 119 IP scholars attended by provincial, municipal and barangay officials with partners and parents Wednesday (August 3) at Malandag gymnasium.

“Today, I would like to welcome the people behind the fortune given to us freely, the fortune that we should value as we know that it is only through good education that we can become a better person,” said Professor Thelma Pagunsan, dean of the College of Education, Mindanao State University Gensan, in her welcome address.

Last 2009, the provincial government partnered with MSU in providing college education, particularly Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (BSEEd), to IP students through scholarship in the Tertiary Education Extension Service, a component program of Paaral para sa Sarangan (PPSS).

PPSS is the provincial government’s scholarship program for poor but deserving Sarangan students who pursue technical, vocational or baccalaureate courses.

This extension program should not only be limited to first, second and third batches but it should be a lifetime program, Governor Migs Dominguez said in his message during the program.

He also appealed to Department of Education officials that all who will graduate in this program should automatically be hired as teachers with national item positions.

“I hope you will be the example and inspiration when you finish college so that the following batch of students will realize that poverty is not a hindrance in fulfilling your dreams,” the governor challenged the scholars.

For the first batch of 47, only 30 students remained and made it to the third year level while the second batch of 54, only 31 made it to second year level. The third batch enrolled last June is 58 with four none-IPs, based on the data provided by PPSS project coordinator Glenda Revano.

In the past two years, classes were held in the open stage and teachers’ conference room of Malandag Central Elementary School during Wednesdays. And for the lack of classrooms, Barangay Captain Delia Constantino lent the Barangay Nutrition Center as a temporary classroom for the third batch.

“I will always be your mayor and I will always apply my 10 secrets of governance which are hardwork, hardwork and more hardwork just for you,” Mayor Reynaldo Constantino said in his inspirational message.

There is already a plan in putting up a permanent campus of MSU in Malandag, he said. With the help of Congressman Manny Pacquiao and Governor Migs Dominguez, MSU campus will be established, Constantino assured. The land acquisition for the school campus will be the counterpart of the municipality for the realization of the project, he added.

“The MOA of this program is seven years. A student may finish his program in only five years. Attendance is a requirement in order to get a passing mark. Students should pass all the examinations administered by the professors of different courses,” said Professor Alicia Pulido, MSU project director.

Aside from BSEEd, MSU Gensan Chancellor Abdurrahman Canacan bared that MSU will also soon be offering Bachelor of Science in Agriculture for its extension school in Malandag.

Board Member Abdulracman Pangolima, Governor Dominguez, Board Member Virgilio Clark Tobias, Board Member Eleanor Saguiguit and Board Member Hermie Galzote turned over seven brand new computer sets to the MSU officials in support of the special tertiary extension program for IPs of the province. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

IP scholars

2011-08-03T16:11:00.001-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (August 3, 2011) - Blaan and Tagakaolo scholars usher in guests during the general orientation program for indigenous people (IP) scholars as Mindanao State University (MSU) requires all students to undergo an orientation to inform students about the school’s rules and regulations, grading system and also as a venue to foster camaraderie among scholars, school personnel and partners Wednesday, August 3, at Malandag gymnasium. The MSU College of Education Malandag extension program, a special tertiary program of the province for the IP, is already on its third year with a total of 119 Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education students holding classes at Malandag Central Elementary School every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Governor’s challenge

2011-08-03T16:10:00.001-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (August 3, 2011) - Indigenous people scholars at the Mindanao State University extension program in Malandag are challenged by Gov. Migs Dominguez to be the example and inspiration when they finish college so that the following batch of students will realize that poverty is not a hindrance in fulfilling their dreams. The governor attended the orientation program of indigenous people scholars of MSU Malandag extension Wednesday, August 3, at Malandag gymnasium. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Inspirational message

2011-08-03T16:09:00.001-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (August 3, 2011) - Mayor Reynaldo Constantino assures parents, teachers and students that the dream of establishing a Mindanao State University campus in Malungon will soon be realized. The mayor shared his inspirational message during the orientation program of indigenous people (IP) scholars of MSU Malandag extension Wednesday, August 3, at Malandag gymnasium. For now, students of this special tertiary extension program of the province for IPs are holding classes at the open stage and teachers’ conference room of Malandag Central Elementary School and in the barangay nutrition center. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Governor’s arrival

2011-08-03T16:08:00.002-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (August 3, 2011) - Governor Migs Dominguez is welcomed by Mindanao State University professors upon his arrival to grace the MSU Malandag extension orientation of indigenous people (IP) scholars and to turn over seven brand new computer sets in support of the special tertiary extension program for IPs of the province Wednesday, August 3, at Malandag gymnasium. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Message of the Chancellor

2011-08-03T16:08:00.000-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (August 3, 2011) - Aside from Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, MSU Gensan Chancellor Abdurrahman Canacan announces that MSU will also soon be offering Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in his message of support during the orientation program of indigenous people scholars of Mindanao State University (MSU) Malandag extension Wednesday, August 3, at Malandag gymnasium. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Computer sets for MSU extension in Sarangani

2011-08-03T16:06:00.000-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (August 3, 2011) – (L-R) Board Member Abdulracman Pangolima, Governor Migs Dominguez, Board Member Virgilio Clark Tobias, Board Member Eleanor Saguiguit and Board Member Hermie Galzote turn over computer sets to Atty. Abdurrahman Canacan, Mindanao State University Gensan chancellor; Dr. Mary Lynn Abiera, vice chancellor; Prof. Thelma Pagunsan, dean of College of Education and Prof. Alicia Pullido, MSU project director; Wednesday, August 3, at the Malandag gym during the MSU Malandag extension indigenous people scholars general orientation. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Asia Philippines 21 Top Ten Leaders Awardee

2011-08-03T16:03:00.000-07:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (July 19, 2011) - Sarangani schools division superintendent Dr. Allan Farnazo congratulates QUEST (Quality Education for Sarangani Today) program manager Annalie Edday for being an awardee of the Asia Philippines 21 ten outstanding young leaders. The announcement was made during the turnover of Books for Asia from Asia Foundation Tuesday, July 19, at the Capitol gym. Edday along with the top ten awardees will be the official delegation of the Philippines to the international young leaders summit in New Delhi, India in November this year. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Sarangani delegates for Peace Exhibit 2009

2011-08-02T10:57:00.000-07:00

Peace Exhibit 2009
School of Designs and Arts, College of St Benilde
La Salle University, Manila

Peace Exhibit 2009

2011-08-02T10:53:00.001-07:00

Peace Exhibit 2009
School of Designs and Arts, College of St Benilde
La Salle University, Manila

Lamlifew Village Museum

2011-08-02T10:25:00.001-07:00

Lamlifew Village Museum
Sitio Lamlifew, Datal Tampal, Malungon, Sarangani Province

Tahakayo Blaan Day Care Project

2011-08-02T10:23:00.001-07:00

Tahakayo Blaan Day Care Project
Sitio Tahakayo, Amsipit, Maasim
Funded by the World Vision Development Foundation Inc
in partnership with Mahintana Foundation and Indigenous Peoples Development Program (IPDP) together with MSWDO Maasim.

Tboli basketry training in Falel, Tamadang, Kiam

2011-08-02T09:54:00.000-07:00

Program director

2011-07-28T13:35:00.000-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (June 24, 2010) - Beth Farnazo, Indigenous
People’s Development Program (IPDP) director, distributes bags to
Blaan school children at Lamlifew Elementary School as one of the
beneficiaries of adopt-a-child program of the IPDP in partnership with
Smart Communications Wednesday, June 23. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI
INFORMATION OFFICE)

School children

2011-07-28T13:33:00.000-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (June 24, 2010) - Kids with IPDP staff pose for a
souvenir shot after the distribution of school supplies and school
bags under the adopt-a-child program of the Indigenous People’s
Development Program of the Provincial Governor’s Office in partnership
with Smart Communications Wednesday, June 23, at the community living
museum in Sitio Lamlifew. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

New school bag

2011-07-28T13:32:00.000-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (June 24, 2010) - A Blaan lass takes home a new
school bag loaded with school supplies under the adopt-a-child program
of Indigenous People’s Development Program of the Provincial
Governor’s Office in partnership with Smart Communications Wednesday,
June 23, at the community living museum in Sitio Lamlifew. (Cocoy
Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Hinterland community opens new high school

2011-07-27T18:36:00.000-07:00

By COCOY SEXCION

MAASIM, Sarangani (July 7, 2011) - Governor Migs Dominguez immediately approved a barangay resolution he received on Tuesday (July 5) requesting for the construction of a students’ dormitory at a new integrated high school in a hinterland community.

The approved request of barangay Amsipit for fund allocation of P400,000 for a dormitory was matched by the governor with a commitment of additional provincial school board teachers through QUEST (Quality Education for Sarangani Today).

The dormitory in sitio Kyumad would accommodate students living in distant sitios. Students usually walk for hours daily in going to school. With the dormitory, the students would be able to live near the school.

Local officials joined Governor Dominguez with Department of Education assistant division superintendent Socrates Mabalot and DSWD XII assistant regional director Gemma Rivera during the inauguration and turn-over to the community of a two-classroom school building at Kyumad Integrated School.

The P1.242-million community-led project was completed with a KALAHI-CIDSS (Kapit-bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services) grant amounting to P935,000, plus a counterpart of P163,042 from the provincial and municipal government. Sarangani Energy Corporation shouldered the P165,000 barangay counterpart while DOLE Philippines lent a welding machine.

“Before, our school had to combine Grade 1 to Grade 4 pupils in one classroom. And when some of our Grade 4 pupils would transfer school in the lowland, they would be sent back to Grade 1. Why? That’s because of poor quality of education here in the highland,” Pastor Arthur Moyak said in his testimony. “That’s why I thank the leaders specially Governor Dominguez for looking after our problems.”

Sitio Kyumad, inhabited mostly by Blaan families, is located in the hinterlands of Maasim with 720 households and a total of 80 1st year and 2nd year students who are now studying at the new integrated high school.

The governor lauded the barangay council and the entire community for the “best practices” in the implementation of the project.

“You inspired me today. Kaning inspirasyon na inyong gihatag sa akoa, mao ni ang dalhon nako pagbalik nako sa Kapitolyo,” Governor Dominguez told the residents. “Nangutana gani ko, kinsa man ang kontraktor diri? Tinuod lang mas nindot pa man mo ug agi kaysa naay engineer”.

The governor added: “Imbes mag pusta ta sa last two, ipusta na lang nato sa kaugmaon sa atong mga anak. Ang target nako, pagbalik nako diri sa pag edad nako ug 50 years old naa nay sobra gatos ka professionals na naggikan diri sa inyong lugar. Dili lang nako ni damgo kun dili damgo natong tanan”.

KALAHI-CIDSS is the national government’s flagship poverty–alleviation project through the financial support of the World Bank.

KALAHI-CIDSS projects follow the Community-Driven Development (CCD) model designed to mobilize the capacity of the local people to analyze their own need, manage resources, and implement appropriate interventions.

These are projects that involve the community right from the start, encourage transparency and thus prevent corruption.

CCD employs strategies that development priorities are addressed in a participatory, collective and inclusive decision-making. In KALAHI-CIDSS, control over resources is in the hands of the poor. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Blaan school pilots mother tongue-based education

2011-07-27T18:34:00.000-07:00

MALUNGON, Sarangani (February 4, 2011) – Local officials, education and language experts led the launching of Lamlifew Elementary School as pilot mother tongue- based multi-lingual education (MTB-MLE) of the province Friday (February 4).

Lamlifew is a Blaan village at the town’s outskirts. Blaan is the name of the people and the language of the largest indigenous group in Sarangani that finally sought indigenized curriculum from the Department of Education.

“Basically, MTB-MLE is integrating the indigenous culture in the regular education curriculum using the first language (Blaan),” DepEd- Sarangani division language coordinator Elizabeth Torres said.

As an example, Torres said teachers can teach the English alphabet in Blaan accent and intonation and then do it in English as an international language.

“MTB-MLE also includes teaching traditional practices that have cultural significance to them.”

Part of the indigenized curriculum through MTB-MLE is the integration of Blaan’s Tabih (traditional clothing), dances and songs to the pupils.

“Sarangani has three variations of the Blaan language from the three municipalities of Glan, Malapatan and Malungon. We will also come up with a phrase book and try to investigate their differences,” Torres added.

Lamlifew has a women’s association aimed at the preservation and development of their cultural heritage and traditional handicrafts.

Lamlifew as a complete elementary started in 1997 with teachers come and go because of their inadequacy in number and their willingness to be assigned to far-flung areas.

The school was built in 1982, then a primary school, through the effort of tribal leader Kalingo Maluma who brought the proposal to Malacanang by himself. Loida Esperanza became the first school head of the school in 1997.

Malungon West District supervisor Nora Nerpiol said the education department has been supporting the school since then through physical and academic means. Lamlifew has the most number of professionals in Barangay Datal Tampal.

Board member Eleanor Saguiguit said the Growth with Equity in Mindanao- (GEM) is on its way for the construction of a footbridge along Bluan river in front of the school where 98 percent of the pupils are crossing everyday to get to school.

“We will also look for partners for the community to fund their traditional craftsmanship like basket-making and beads making,” Saguiguit said.

Saguiguit recalled the village, roughly 1,600 hectares of pasture land, was given to her as a dowry by her uncle-in- law when she got married in 1977. She afforded to refuse ownership of the land after seeing the presence of the community there, she said.

In 2007, the province’s Indigenous People’s Development Program (IPDP) helped Lamlifew build a living museum and identified Lamlifew Elementary School as a School of Living Tradition (SLT).

Rosie Alcantara Dominguez, mother of Governor Migs Dominguez, sponsored the technology transfer of silk weaving by Malaysian expert weavers to the Lamlifew Women’s Association.

In 2009, Beth Ditan, a master in the art of beads making from the community, taught Grades V and VI pupils the traditional craftsmanship. Japanese anthropologist Taku Kawamuta later funded the materials for beads making and traditional clothing after seeing the children in the internet.

With the MTB-MLE, the school will have a once-a- week IP day with community elders to teach the children songs, dances and handicrafts. (Russtum G. Pelima/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Better future for the IPs

2011-07-27T18:32:00.001-07:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (October 30, 2010) – Governor Migs Dominguez gives an inspirational message to tribal elders and participants by providing the younger generation the opportunity to finish their education and become professionals during the indigenous peoples thanksgiving day Friday, October 29, at the provincial gym. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Damsu

2011-07-27T18:31:00.001-07:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (October 30, 2010) – Blaan cultural master Monti Yangon leads the tribal prayer “Damsu” at the opening ceremony of the indigenous peoples thanksgiving day and turn-over of chieftainship Friday, October 29, at the provincial gym. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Lemuhen Performing Arts

2011-07-27T18:30:00.001-07:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (October 30, 2010) – Lemuhen Performing Arts Group dancers from Kiamba town perform at the indigenous peoples thanksgiving day Friday, October 29, at the provincial gym. This Tboli performing arts group is recipient of the School of Living Tradition, a project by the Indigenous Peoples Development Program under the governor’s office. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Message of commitment

2011-07-27T18:29:00.001-07:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (October 30, 2010) – Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon gives his message of commitment to the Provincial Tribal Council of Sarangani during the celebration of the National Indigenous Peoples Thanksgiving Day at capitol gym Friday, October 29. The celebration was participated in by the major tribes of the province such as Blaan, Tboli, Tagakaolo and Manobo from the seven municipalities. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE/Bon-Bon Quiño)

Monkey dance

2011-07-27T18:28:00.001-07:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (October 30, 2010) – A member from Lemuhen Performing Arts Group performs a monkey dance at the indigenous peoples thanksgiving day and turn-over of chieftainship Friday, October 29, at the provincial gym. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

NCIP Regional Director

2011-07-27T18:25:00.001-07:00

ALABEL, Sarangani (October 30, 2010) – Governor Migs Dominguez receives a certificate of appreciation from National Commission on Indigenous People regional director Jean Anne Moendeg Zoilo for integrating the tribal communities in the pursuit for progress and human resource development through education. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)