TABUK CITY, Kalinga – The Local Government Units (LGUs) and Ethnolinguistic Groups Day was marked with a special celebration at the Kalinga Sports Center on February 12, 2025. The event, which honors the Bodong, gives recognition to the various LGUs of Kalinga and the diverse tribes and sub-tribes residing in the province, highlighted their contributions to both cultural preservation and progress.
Originally scheduled to deliver a speech at the event, Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla, Jr. was unable to attend due to prior commitments. However, he was ably represented by Beauty Gonzales-Crisologo, his Community Affairs Ambassador, who conveyed his heartfelt message to the people of Kalinga.
Gonzales-Crisologo expressed the senator’s apologies for his absence, noting that despite having an equally important engagement, he ensured that his message was personally delivered. She told the audience that, although he was not physically present, he was celebrating with them in spirit.
In his video message, Senator Revilla extended his gratitude to the people of Kalinga, acknowledging the warmth and love he has always felt from the community. He lauded the province’s leaders and the eight LGUs for their unwavering dedication to public service, which continues to drive Kalinga’s development forward.
The senator also emphasized his deep connection to the province, noting that he has been recognized as an adopted son of Tabuk City with the moniker “Alindayo,” a title bestowed upon him during the last Matagoan Festival. He affirmed that celebrating Kalinga’s 30 years of unity, effort, and progress is not only an honor but a responsibility to uphold its history and journey.
“Isang pag gunita sa makulay na kultura ng Kalinga. Ang mga awit at sayaw tulad ng (Salip) at (Pattung), makikita natin ang mga kwento ng inyong mga ninuno ang kanilang lakas, pananampalataya, at pag-ibig sa kalikasan at kapayapaan,” he stated.
Senator Revilla reminded everyone of the significance of such celebrations, noting that they are not merely festivities but a reaffirmation of cultural heritage and identity. He urged the people of Kalinga to take pride in being YKalingas and to ensure that their rich traditions are preserved and passed onto future generations.
The event served as a powerful tribute to Kalinga’s enduring spirit, unity, and commitment to its cultural heritage, reinforcing the importance of remembering and honoring the province’s past while striving towards a brighter future. By Edward Joseph Gacuya
