Calinao: Unique highland melting pot

FROM a rest and recreation center amid sprawling green hills and Pine covered mountains to becoming the “Summer Capital of the Philippines,” yes, Baguio City has definitely come a long way.

More than a prime tourist destination however, the City of Pines remains as a unique “melting pot” in the North.

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Throughout the years Baguio has evolved into a center of commerce, education, as well as a remarkable “distinct culture-salad bowl” of people from the highlands.

Home to many indigenous creations in the north, Baguio indeed has a lot to promote in terms of products, culture, and tradition.

While having a short chat with a multi-awarded veteran broadcaster, journalist and public servant early this week, I was reminded of simple yet meaningful ways to further situate our city in the worldwide and global map.

Through our brief conversation with the veteran whom I view with utmost respect reinforced my inclination towards promoting what is “distinctively Baguio” or “typically highland” during festivals, occasions, and public gatherings.

Native creations and products may very well take on the spotlight at trade-fairs held in the locality during certain occasions.

Now here are a few suggestions which may be adopted during special events especially gatherings which are supposed to be “for the people” and “community affairs”:

Why not support the local wood carving industry by providing space (without charge) where they could showcase their skills in the craft as well as trade their masterpieces?

Why not do the same for the weaving industry? Not only will visitors and tourists be impressed with viewing the actual process of making hand-woven blankets, sweaters, garments,… and the like, but patrons for these indigenous products would increase.

Why not showcase our basket weavers and products in the same fashion?

Why not further advance our already popular “Benguet silver” products? Our “silversmiths” and local jewelers may actually gain more mileage in the worldwide market this way.

Why not allot free space for local artists to sketch portraits of tourists and guests at minimal fees?

Why not allow local folk and ethnic singers to utilize identified public areas for free concerts where they could vend their cd’s and musical compositions?

In short, why not selflessly and non-commercially support anything which is local or native to the highlands from artful creations and ornaments, all the way to consumable goods such as fruit wines, rice wine, fruit jams,… and the like without demanding much from participants and stakeholders. Besides, such practice may very well benefit the city and region in the long run. Furthermore, it would definitely aid in promoting the distinctness of Baguio and the region as a whole.

My short yet noteworthy tête-à-tête with the veteran reminded me of a similar affair over a cup of coffee with a colleague I teasingly call “Papa Tom.”

While reminiscing on some “older festivals” akin to the “Grand Cañao,” we both agreed on the assertion “the northern highlands has always been proud of its rich heritage, culture, and traditions.”

In fact I do remember a time when I joined locals of all ages and walks of life march to the rhythm of gongs while parading down Session road clad in nothing but a headdress and a G-string (with no underwear of course). It was a memorable experience. I felt proud being part of a region which takes pride in its rich culture and heritage.

Perhaps it wouldn’t be a bad idea in establishing some sort of a “highland festival” similar to the ones we were part of in the past.

Aside from instilling culture and tradition to the younger generations, such a festival carries the potential of global recognition in terms of tourism potential.

Now here are a few ideas to trigger the “theater of your minds”:

Imagine the different members of tribes and towns from the region marching down the main thoroughfare of the city in tribal costumes.

Imagine school and community children proudly marching at the central business district dressed in colorful native attire.

Imagine shoulder carried miniature native huts as a unique showcase on parade.

Imagine ethnically designed horse-drawn wagons or carriages showcasing one of the old modes of transportation in our highland city.

Imagine Baguio and Benguet cowboys all saddled-up and demonstrating their rodeo skills.

Imagine a marathon presentation of the various ethnic dances in the region.

Imagine a grand canao open to all right in the heart of downtown Baguio.

Imagine all night bonfires, folk-singing, barn dances, and merry-making at Dap-ays to be situated in the different parks in the locality.

Yes, just trying to visualize such festivals of the highland communities and its people makes us recognize immense potential in terms of tourism, culture and tradition preservation, community and regional unity, economy and global growth.

Yes, Baguio is indeed a unique “melting pot” in the region worth showcasing to world.

Before we end this week’s affair my dear friends, may I respectfully thank our PRO-COR Regional Director Orlando Pestano and the Officers of the Cordillera-PNP for hosting a simple yet wonderful Media-night for the PNP Press Corps and members of the local media last week.

ANONYMOUS COMMENTS, OPINIONS, QUERIES THIS WEEK:

As both a local commuter and motorist I noticed an improvement in the flow of traffic since the double coding scheme for Aurora Hill and Trancoville jeepneys. I hope the experiment becomes permanent.

Sent by: “Junie Boy” of Rimando Road

A lot of taxis and PUJs still ignore the “king of the road” ordinance. If erring drivers are not reprimanded and penalized, then the ordinance will just be useless. Effective implementation and monitoring measures are needed.

Sent by: “Prof. EF, Baguio”

Feel free to send your anonymous comments, queries and opinions via email to nickprillc@yahoo.com or nick_99.9news@yahoo.com.