Bukidnon’s Kaamulan Festival kicks off

THE annual Kaamulan Festival in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon kicked off on February 16 with different activities lined up until March.

Now on its 35th year, the Kaamulan Festival will end on March 10 in time for the 95th Foundation Day of Bukidnon.

Several activities have already been lined up for the duration of the festival, which includes a trade fair, sports events and bazaar, among other activities.

But highlighting this year’s festival are the Piniliyapan Hu Bukidnon (Bukidnon songs and dances) on March 2, the ethnic street dancing on March 3 and the coronation night of Binibining Bukidnon on March 8.

Catalino Chan III, regional director of the Department of Tourism (DOT), said Kaamulan Festival is a tribal cultural festival held annually in Malaybalay City from the second half of February until March 10.

Kaamulan, which means “gathering,” is held to celebrate the culture and tradition of the seven ethnic groups Bukidnon, Higaonon, Talaandig, Manobo, Matigsalug, Tigwahanon and Umayamnon that inhabit the province.

“Colorful tapestry and rich traditions are being performed to show how beautiful the culture of Bukidnon is,” Chan said in an emailed statement.

For details of the schedule of activities, Chan advised those interested to visit the DOT office at the ground floor of Pelaez Sports Center or call (088) 856-4048, (08822) 723696 and 726394.