CORDILLERAN children and youth born and raised in California continue to play an active role in promoting their rich cultural heritage in America.
This is with the help of their parents, elders, and the Bibak Northern California headed by their president Rev. Leonard Oakes who never failed to teach them the value of embracing their own culture and understanding their tribal roots.
Together, they have been performing in different important occasions showcasing the rich culture and traditions of the Cordillera.
Just recently, they demonstrated one of the best cultural presentations at the Pista sa Nayon 2019 celebration at Vallejo City, the sister city of Baguio City.
From the parade along Marin street to the grass area of the waterfront where they presented the Balangbang dance barefooted they have captivated the audience with their beautiful culture and creativity.
“We are proud of our youth and new generation leadership who made this event possible,” Oakes said.
Meanwhile, BIBAK NORCAL Board of director John Dyte said that their group’s participation in the Vallejo’s Pista sa Nayon has increased the visibility of the Philippine indigenous cultures in California. Likewise, it inspired other Philippine tribes to present their origins, contributed to Vallejo’s events as a sister city of Baguio, and instill in the minds of the youth the relevance of their culture in contemporary social events.
As long as there are groups like the BIBAK Northern California, the preservation and revitalization of the Igorot culture will continue for the new and future generations even if they are in another nation.
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