AFTER this year's Panagbenga in the countries summer capital, another cultural festival in the Cordillera to look forward to is Montanosa's "Lang-ay" starting on the 7th of April 2017.
A native term showcasing the living tradition of the people of Mountain province to celebrate festivities, share happiness, foster family solidarity, hospitality and nurture friendship - all with a toast of home brewed wine.
This aside from a week-long agro-industrial trade, tourism and cultural fair with tribal dances and songs in full regalia.
Montanosa's cultural presentation is as genuine as how it was performed by our forefathers. Their sharing of "Lang-ay" to the Filipino's is a manifestation of how the people of Mountain province gives importance to their cultural tradition.
Aside from the "Lang-ay", other cultural related events in Montanosa is set to be scheduled in the succeeding months.
Menaliyam Festival, May 27 - 28:
A mini Lang-ay Festival that showcases the best of the Balangao, Baliwon, and Barlig tribes reminiscent of their old and living customs and traditions amidst the sound of gongs and chanting of sacred prayers.
Begnas:
Ethnic offering of thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest where pigs or chickens are butchered for the family or clan members to partake of.
Chom-no or Chonno:
The grandest and most expensive wedding celebration which usually happens once in four or five years when the number of carabaos butchered reflects the economic status of the family, accompanied by dancing and singing.
Other special Interest are nature trekking through the Bontoc Circuit Trail to appreciate the natural wonders and beauty of the province.
Some trekking sites are the Guina-ang - Dalican - Aguid; Bontoc Poblacion - Dalican; Bontoc Poblacion - Caneo; and Mainit - Maligcong - Belwang routes.
To those wanting to do some mountain climbing activities may try the Mt. Amoyao (Barlig), Mt. Calawitan (Sabangan), Mount Pagturao (Bontoc), Mt. Ampacao (Sagada), Mt. Clitoris (Tadian), Mt. Polis (Bontoc), Barlig Forest, and at Sagada for Spelunking.
The famous Chico River offers a challenging and thrilling route for river rafting especially on the rainy months of June - August.
Simply put, If it's fun in the Philippines, then it's "More Fun in the Cordillera's, and the Best of Fun in Montanosa".