The month of May every year is National Heritage Month,
in accordance with Proclamation No. 439, s. 2003, and this year’s theme is “Pamilya
para sa Pamana” (Family for Heritage). In an effort to enable Capiznons to have a
greater connection with the province’s rich history and culture, the Capiz Provincial
Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO) held the Dungog Capiznon Youth Heritage
Camp from May 27-29 at Vicente Andaya, Sr., National High School in Sigma,
Capiz. Participants were high school and college students from all over the
province. Ati and Panay Bukidnon participants were also invited to join the event.
The Tumandok (Panay-Bukidnon) of Tapaz and Jamindan and the
Atis of Dumarao each showcased their indigenous heritage. The Tumandoks depicted
their oral chants, performed Binanog,
their traditional dance, and showed the participants how the Panubok, their traditional embroidery,
is done.
The locals of Cuartero, meanwhile, demonstrated how to cook
native delicacies, like the bayi-bayi, suman,
and ibos.
The Ati tribe also displayed the amulets, talismans, and
herbs, which are sought-after since many believe, even city-dwellers, that
they have medicinal properties and serve as protection against evil spirits.
A short program was held after the showcase of the cultural
masters where Hon. Victor A. Tanco, Sr., outgoing governor of the Province of
Capiz, reminded the participants not to neglect their heritage because this is
a priceless wealth that they can be proud of as Capiznons.
Meanwhile, Ms. Melanie R. Arancillo, executive director of
United Capizenos Foundation, Inc.—One Capiz, vowed for the continued
partnership of her foundation (which also organized the annual Capiztahan
Festival) with the provincial tourism government for the promotion of tourism
and preservation of local heritage.
On their part, the participants made their community pledge
to uphold and promote the cultural heritage of Capiz.
Participants and guests were wowed by Sayaw ni San Antonio, also known as Saot sa Pisi, Cuartero’s very own dance ritual in honor of the town’s patron saint San
Antonio de Padua. Young girls would dance while intricately weaving colorful
ropes tied at the topmost portion of a pole by each dancer. The grand finale shows
the fast movements of the dancers as they weave the ropes into 12 weaving designs.
Dungog Capiznon Youth Heritage Camp is organized by Mr. Alphonsus Tesoro Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Officer, and staff.
For more information, visit or contact Capiz Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs
Office.
2nd Floor, Provincial Capitol, Roxas City, Capiz
Tel. No. 036-6210042 local 133
TeleFax No. 036-6212935
Email Address: capiztourism@gmail.com
Facebook: CapizTourismAndCulturalAffairs
Contact Person: Mr. Alphonsus D. Tesoro
Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Officer
