MP Lang-ay Festival to feature ‘Kataguan caravan for a cause’

Scenic spots’ viewing to raise funds for dialysis patients 

By Wabilyn M. Lomong-oy

BONTOC, Mountain Province -- Among highlights of the 50th Mountain Province founding anniversary and 13th Lang-ay Festival is “Kataguan caravan for a cause” (Drive for life) to be held third time with this year’s event set on April 6 to raise funds in favor of dialysis patients from Mountain Province.

The Kataguan Dialysis Patients Organization, Inc. in partnership with the office of Rep. Maximo Dalog conceptualized Kataguan Caravan which was first conducted on April 24, 2015 wherein 54 vehicles joined the activity.  

The Kataguan Dialysis Patients Organization is composed of kidney patients from Mountain Province who are having hemodialysis treatments in different dialysis centers in the country.

It was organized in January 2015 by six patients of Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center. 

Later in January 31, 2015, the first meeting was called and attended by 27 kidney patients who elected their officers.

There are now 104 kidney patients who are members of the group.

The caravan was organized in order to help dialysis patients generate funds for their weekly treatment.

It is also a way of showcasing the bayanihan system wherein the welfare of those in need are prioritized.  

Dalog in an interview said the annual caravan does not only aim to raise funds in favor of dialysis patients but also promote tourism in the province.

He solicited assistance of the public to help by sponsoring tickets of P2,000, P1,000, and P250.

Participants for the caravan will assemble 6 a.m. at Eyeb grounds in this capital town then proceed to Dawdawan, Sabangan.

Since the caravan is also considered a fun ride, stopovers are labeled for the participants to see the beauty of Mountain Province.

First stop is Mt. Polis in Bagnen, Bauko. From there, the ride will continue to Sagada via Taccong Road.

Stopovers will follow at Data Saddle. From there itinerary includes “view of the Sleeping Beauty at Balangagan Cave, walk to the mouth of Sumaguing Cave, then to Lumiang Burial Cave, all in the tourist town of Sagada.

Then participants will proceed to Poblacion Sagada to pray at the Church of Saint Mary the Virgin, then to Sagada Stable, Staunton Road for lunch and a program.

The caravan is expected to draw participants from not only from the province but also local tourists from Baguio and Manila.

Proceeds generated from the activity will be turned over immediately to the organization after the caravan.