BAUKO, Mountain Province – “Be ambassadors of tourism by inviting or bringing a friend to Bauko,” Senator Cynthia Villar stressed in her speech during the opening of the Begnas di Bauko festival on March 14, 2019.
Villar pointed out that Bauko municipality is a home of talents and opportunities and rich in traditional beliefs and practices that cannot be observed in the lowlands.
She challenged the people and officialdom of Bauko to discover, identify and promote what they can offer to guests, especially the indigenous practices and products and tourist attractions.
As the author of the Farm Tourism Development Law, Villar shared that this new law is an opportunity to attract more visitors in Bauko town as many guests would like to have the experience to sleep and do some activities in the farm, hence, the need to build homestays, restaurants, pasalubong centers and coffee shops within or near the farm.
As part of farm tourism, Villar persuaded the people of Bauko to establish a farm school as a training ground for interested individuals who want to go on farming or experience actual farming.
She also encouraged the audience to consider coffee production as coffee drinking is becoming more popular pointing out there is a high demand for but low supply of coffee.
Villar encourages those who are interested to attend training in a farm school are entitled of scholarship grants thru the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.
Senator Cynthia Villar was bestowed an Igorot name Kademayan thru a resolution by the officialdom of Bauko. Kademayan is an Igorot term that means beautiful, lovely and thrifty.
Before she left for Manila, Villar inaugurated the opening of the agro-industrial fair.
Bauko Mayor Abraham Akilit, pointed out in his opening remarks, that the officialdom and people of Bauko are doing their part in the preservation of the customs and traditions of Bauko. Hence, the annual celebration of the Begnas festival and practice of traditional rituals.
He emphasized that the festival signifies the coming together of the people of Bauko to renew and strengthen their friendship thru indigenous dances, drinking and eating together.
By Francis B. Degay
Banner photo (On file): Senator Cynthia Villar delivers her message during the 118th Benguet Foundation Anniversary and the Adivay Festival celebration at the Benguet Provincial Capitol. RMC PIA-CAR
