At Hungduan National High School (HNHS), Hungduan, Ifugao, the annual conduct of the HNHS Indigenous Knowledge, Skills, and Practices (IKSP) Festival since 2004 has become an avenue for intergenerational exchange and learning.
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This yearโs festival held on March 20-21, 2024 is centered on the theme Boltan: Ipaptok ya Pakadangyanon (Inheritance: Safeguarding and Enriching). Participated by different students from the eight barangays of Hungduan, the festival showcased different traditional performances. Among the activities slated during the festival include Ifugao dances, traditional games, songs, and a cultural quiz bee. Traditional skills in carving and handicrafts were among the activities conducted.ย
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Barangay and Municipal Local Government leaders were in full attendance. In their messages, they emphasized the value of indigenous traditions to foster cooperation, and development in the municipality. Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representatives highlighted the need to incorporate cultural appropriateness in the practice of IKSP.
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Jude C. Baggo, the current University Director for the Ifugao Rice Terraces as Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (IRT-GIAHS) of the Ifugao State University (IFSU) graced the event as the guest speaker. In his message, he underscored the need for an intergeneration dialogue between knowledge holders and the youth. He added that the issues of โoriginalityโ, correctness, and appropriateness can be addressed through this dialogue. He also emphasized the need to listen to the youth and their preferred futures, especially on IKSP. The keynote message also discussed the need to decolonize the mindset of the youth and provide more platforms to learn the Ifugao traditions.
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Hon. Romeo L. Haguyayap, Vice Mayor of Hungduan, vowed to initiate Sangguniang Bayan and Barangay Resolutions to support the annual activity by allocating funds. This initiative is supported by all stakeholders.
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IFSU, as the lone higher educational institution in the province has been championing the rich cultural heritage of the Ifugaos since its establishment through its programs, projects, and activities. IFSU supports the conduct of IKSP festivals and other programs to promote the rich traditions of the Ifugaos. The HNHS and IRT-GIAHS Center both agreed to forge collaboration for cultural and knowledge exchange in the coming months.#
