The FIESTA CORDILLERA makes its Debut in the University of Baguio with the theme, “TAWID: Transcending Boundaries and Appreciating the Wealth of Indigenous Diversity in the Cordillera and Beyond”

Written by Milagros Salingbay Guinsad, Louie Kates Balay-as, and Chariz Lionor Banig

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The event is a collaboration between the Office of Student Affairs (OSA), the School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts (STELA), and the UB-BIMAAK Organization. Fiesta Cordillera id UB was initially a culminating activity for the HCORDI and ARTAPP students. However, this year’s celebration was expanded to involve the entire UB student community. This tripartite event included the Art Exhibit & Visual Arts, Cultural Performance Competition, and the Mr. and Ms. Fiesta Cordillera id UB.

The day’s festivities began with an inspiring opening address by Dr. Janice Kaylyn Lonogan, the UB Vice President for Academic Affairs, who welcomed all attendees and set the tone for the day’s activities. A traditional oggayam (ritual prayer) performed by Atty. Mauricio Domogan followed, grounding the event in reverence and respect for Cordillera traditions.  

The morning session started with the exciting and dynamic Cultural Performance Competition, with nine talented groups from various academic programs showcasing the rich cultural traditions of the Cordillera. The performances highlighted not only the beauty of Indigenous music and dance but also the creativity and passion of the performers.

Before concluding the morning session, the UB-BIMAAK presented a captivating intermission. The performance featured “Balasibasen,” a traditional courtship song, and the dynamic Balangbang dance, both originating from Mountain Province. To conclude their performance, the group led a lively community dance, which was enthusiastically joined by various cultural groups, judges, and audience members.

Meanwhile, the Art Exhibit saw the display of 21 stunning entries from UB students, all reflecting the creativity and artistic talent nurtured in the Cordillera. The exhibit was a visual testament to the beauty of indigenous art, culture, and nature, sparking thoughtful conversations among attendees about the importance of preserving and promoting local creative expressions. Exhibit from CAA1 – DMD1 (Lardizalbal and group) clinched the first prize, Ms. Manilie Teston on the Second prize and Ms. Kaye Guzman on the third. 

During the afternoon session, the Mr. and Ms. Fiesta Cordillera id UB commenced, which brought together talented candidates from various academic programs, celebrating cultural heritage and individual potential. Emphasizing authenticity, the pageant spotlighted not only the candidates’ traditional attire but also their advocacy and intellectual prowess during the Question and Answer. For the special awards, Mr. Joseph II Manonggit and Ms. Laliane Basilio won the Mr. and Ms. Cultural Attire awards, while Mr. Rudee Jr. L. Dolipas and Ms. Jahara Nicolette P. Chagsan were recognized as Mr. and Miss Advocacy 2024 for their commitment to meaningful causes. The pageant culminated in the crowning of Mr. Adrianne Joseph C. Bogsulen and Ms. Erika P. Latawan as Mr. and Miss Cordillera id UB 2024. 

One of the highlights of the event was also the feature of UB’s international students, who brought global cultures to the runway. Participants from countries like Saudi Arabia, Egypt and India showcased their national attire with pride, carrying their flags as symbols of cultural heritage. The audience admired the diversity, unity, and pride embodied by each student, bridging continents and inviting a deeper appreciation of global cultures.

As the festivities concluded, it was clear that Fiesta Cordillera id UB had not only transcended boundaries but had also sparked a deeper appreciation for the wealth of indigenous diversity that exists within the Cordillera and beyond. UB-BIMAAK is poised to make this celebration a cherished tradition, bringing together students from all walks of life to share in the beauty and richness of the Cordilleran heritage. This is reflected in the organization’s newfound tagline, “In UBimaak, UBelong”.