Regional autonomy pushed; Cordillera Month kicks off

By Legriv Vilee I. Marquez

BAGUIO CITY – Commemoration of 36th Cordillera Month kicked off in ceremonies here July 1 with more than 300 participants from government agencies, local government units, academe, civil society organizations and private sector.
National Economic Development Authority Cordillera Regional Director Susan A. Sumbeling led the agency’s participation in the ceremony.
    The NEDA acts as secretariat in the pursuit for regional autonomy themed this year: “Celebrating one, resilient, diverse and inclusive journey toward regional autonomy.”
    Cordillera Month is an annual observance conceptualized by the Cordillera Regional Development Council to increase awareness on  autonomy advocacy and generate support from stakeholders for passage an Organic Act for an autonomous Cordillera.
    Along with RDC members and private sector, the kick-off program commenced with the opening ritual by Ibaloi elders at Ibaloi Heritage Park here at the central business district.
    Elders offered a pair of chicken and a pig to pray for success of  Cordillera Month events.
    RDC Cordillera chairperson and Apayao Gov. Elias C. Bulut, Jr., in his message delivered by RDC co-chair Edna C. Tabanda, said commemoration of Cordillera Month marked the concerted efforts of its regional stakeholders toward the ultimate aspiration of the region to become autonomous.
    Elders and members of the youth sector also delivered their solidarity messages in the pursuit of regional autonomy.
    Baguio City Mayor Benjamin B. Magalong said collective pursuit of regional autonomy serves as a powerful affirmation of Cordilleran identity in realizing regional development and good governance. University of Baguio president Javier Herminio D. Bautista, in his message delivered by Dr. Donnavila Marie

Panday, urged regional folks to “reflect on the Cordillera journey and to thrive for regional autonomy where aspirations and dreams of the people are given the platform it deserves.”

Cordillera director Atanacio D. Addog of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples unveiled the programs to look forward to following the kick-off and invited everyone to actively participate.

Tabanda and Sumbeling, led symbolic beating of the unity gong that officially signaled the opening of the month-long celebration.

The kick-off ceremony was capped by a community dance led by Youth Group Ayyoweng di Gangsa.

The RDC Cordillera committee on indigenous peoples concerns chaired by Mountain Province Gov. Bonifacio Lacwasan, Apayao headed by Gov. Elias C. Bulut, Jr., and NCIP Cordillera host the 36th Cordillera Month celebration this year.