Kalinga prepares for “Awong chi Gangsa”

By Peter A. Balocnit

TABUK CITY, Kalinga --The gong will take center stage  on Feb. 14, 2014 in  this province in the  “Awong chi Gangsa” (Call for a Thousand Gongs) aiming to wow the world  with  unique and beautiful gong music. 

The committee working on  this salient feature in Kalinga’s 19th founding anniversary and Ullalim Festival from Feb. 13-15,  has this unique idea of playing many gongs simultaneously and  showcasing its symbolism  of unity as the central theme of the three -day celebration.

About 3,000 expected participants will simultaneously play the gong from the Rotary Marker down the streets of Bulanao this city towards the athletic bowl where the seven  municipalities will form the letters K-A-L-I-N-G-A and the  four  districts of Tabuk City the word  S-H-I-N-E-S.

All towns  and this city  will  have  at least 300 gongs and players each for this event.

Before the ground demonstration starts at the athletic bowl, guest of honor and Gov. JocelBaac will beat the ceremonial gong to officially open the founding anniversary and Ullalim festival celebration.

Attractive prizes await participating groups with the best presentations.

According to committee member Adoracion Dalanao, the call for a thousand gongs will replace the street dancing.

The  idea of a thousand gong was first broached by Dr. Amelia Miranda, a  civic leader of this city who more than a native Kalinga,  had always showcased the rich cultural heritage of her foster province in personal fashion, practice and love for the place.

With the meeting of minds that included Church leaders, the call for a thousand gongs has expanded as a rallying advocacy for lasting peace and cultural renewal, according to Bishop Prudencio Andaya Jr. of the Vicariate of Tabuk City.

Baac assured the support of the provincial government in any manner it can for the success of the event.