BAGUIO CITY – The Rhythm of the Highlands festival brought Cordilleran culture to center stage on February 15, 2025, at Melvin Jones Grandstand and Football Grounds. Twenty-four cultural groups performed traditional music and dances, highlighting the region’s rich heritage.
The event featured performances from SLSPI IP Socio-Cultural Dance Troupe, Binnadang Irisan Cultural Performing Group (BICPG/CCDG), Inubuan Cultural Performing Group, Tawid and Salig Cultural Performing Group, Gannay x SLSAH Dance Troupe, Kontad, Dang Dang-ay Cultural Performing Group, Iyaman Cultural Performing Group, and Uschong Cultural Ensemble.
Other participants included SJDS Chuwe Me Cultural Dance Group, Litagwa Cultural Performing Group, Salibi Performing Group of Easter College, Ragsak Cultural Performing Group, Yaman di Gangsa (YDG) Performing Group, Bimaak Cultural Dance Troupe, Saeng Ya Kasay Cultural Ensemble, Dragon Treasure Cultural Performing Group, Gawis Culture and Arts Ensembles Company, Sakusak Musical Ensemble, e-Baguio Indigenous Cultural and the Arts Society Performing Group (e-BICAS Performing Group), Uggayam Cultural Performing Group, Dagdagup Cultural Dance Group (DDCDG), JSNHS Cultural Performing Group, and Gasat Cultural Dance Group.
Department of Tourism-Cordillera Administrative Region (DOT-CAR) Regional Director Jovita A. Ganonganhighlighted the significance of the festival in preserving local traditions.
“The Rhythm of the Highlands is a beautiful reminder of how deeply culture is woven into the fabric of Panagbenga. This festival is not all about flowers, but also about unity, identity, and the pride we take in our history. It’s a chance for a community to come together to share the beauty of our traditions and pass them on to future generations,” she said.
The festival also recognized outstanding performances during the awarding ceremonies. The Best Choreography award went to Bimaak Cultural Dance Troupe, while Saeng Ya Kasay Cultural Ensemble won Best in Attire and Props. For the Best Cultural Competition, the 2nd Runner-up title went to Iyaman Cultural Performing Group, while Saeng Ya Kasay Cultural Ensemble secured 1st Runner-up. The Champion title was awarded to Bimaak Cultural Dance Troupe. The winners will join the Grand Float Parade on January 23, 2025, as part of the Panagbenga Festival celebrations.
As the Rhythm of the Highlands concluded, the echoes of gongs and chants remained in the hearts of those who witnessed the celebration, proving that Cordilleran culture continues to thrive with every beat, step, and song. Spectators, including locals and tourists, praised the performances and the festival’s role in keeping Cordilleran heritage alive. By John Hermarc P. Villanueva
