A GRANT of P350,000 representing the first tranche of a P600,000 assistance to preserve and protect the mummies of Kabayan was recently turned over to Kabayan Mayor Faustino Aquisan and treasurer Sixto Bayas by the environmental non government organization (NGO) Pine Tree.

Dr. Michael A. Bengwayan, Pine Tree director, turned over the funds, which came from the National Geographic Society.

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"The funds will be used to construct protective railing, iron grills, repair fences and concrete steps," Bengwayan said.

Pine Tree will also educate the indigenous people on the importance of the mummies and ecotourism.

For his part, Faustino said the funds, the first of its kind from an NGO, will go a long way in protecting the sacred mummies which are being destroyed by bad weather and also from some tourists.

"The coffins protecting the mummies and the mummies as well need to be protected from rain and harsh weather. The caves also need to be fenced to ward off thieves, looters and visitors with bad intentions," he said.

In the past some mummies were stolen while others were desecrated.

Bengwayan told the mayor and his staff of a still unrecovered mummy in the hands of a government agency which dissected it back in the 1980s.

An article in the defunct Daily Express written by Bengwayan described the dissected mummy. The picture of the dissected mummy was taken by Art Tibaldo. Bengwayan used to write for the Daily Express.

In another development, Bengwayan said training on carbon sink and the production and protection as well as use of petroleum nut (Pittosporum resineferum) is slated for Kabayan on December 6.

Pine Tree is helping towns in the region to get into the carbon sink project which aims to reduce global warming and seek alternative energy sources.

Kabayan is known not only as the home of the mummies but also for Mt. Pulag, the second highest peak in the country, which serves as watershed for Binga, San Roque and Ambuklao dams.

The Kabayan people's traditions of preserving the dead and other ancient relics found in the caves have been attracting local and even foreign tourists.

For more Philippine news, visit Sun.Star Davao.

(November 28, 2008 issue)
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