A Tribal Hall in Talakag

We were on our way to Bethany when we passed a group of people gathered and dressed in their colourful traditional Bukidnon attire. We were curious so we stopped and asked if we could take some pictures.

Datu Linggian Modesto B. Pocol, Jr. (who happened to be an old schoolmate) kindly explained what was going on. It turned out that there was a Tribal Wedding going on. We were excited as this was real and not a performance put on for visitors. The rituals, the music and the dances were indeed mesmerizing.

The venue was the Tribal Hall and as you can see it is still under construction. The land it sits on was kindly loaned by the Nobles (a very well-known family in Talakag); however, they need help to complete the construction of the Hall itself. Any donations, financial or in kind (nails, paint, cement, hollow blocks, etc), would be gratefully received.

Datu Linggian and two other Senior Tribal Elders explained why this Tribal Hall means so much to them. It would help preserve their culture and provide a common meeting place where they can learn skills; run basic education classes; and learn to integrate into society which would greatly contribute to the peacekeeping process that is so vital to an area besot with conflict. Likewise, visitors or anyone who is interested can also drop by the Tribal Hall anytime and learn more about the Tribes in Talakag.

Firepower in Talakag: Pacquiao vs. Cotto

The people of Talakag may not have been able to travel to Las Vegas, USA to watch the Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing match but, thanks to Jess Paras, the general public were able to witness today via satellite how Pacman stopped Cotto at 55 seconds of the 12th round right here in Talakag.

Jess Paras is running for Congressman for our District in Bukidnon in the 2010 elections. What a way to launch his candidacy to a wider audience by sponsoring this show here in Talakag and I must admit that the gesture was impressive. A smart promotional strategy for Jess indeed and his contenders better think fast of something smarter to beat this one.

Kevin Bacungan Manansala

The banner says it all. Well done Kevin and best wishes for the future.

“Kalag-kalag” in Talakag

Just been to the cemetery to celebrate “kalag-kalag” (All Souls Day) and remember the lives of our beloved relatives and friends who have passed on. Saturday has been spent clearing around the graves and painting the tombs. Yesterday and today we went back to light candles, offer flowers and prayers.

When I left Talakag to go abroad, my father was still alive and even before that we always went to celebrate “kalag-kalag” in Cagayan de Oro where most of our relatives who have passed on were buried. So this is really my first “kalag-kalag” in Talakag.

For two days, Talakag cemetery was full, glowing and lively. You bump into so many people you haven’t seen for a long time. There’s a party atmosphere with people singing, playing, eating and drinking. Across the cemetery and under the shade of the rubber trees, vendors set up selling flowers, candles and refreshments. Barriers were set up at both ends of the cemetery to provide pedestrian only areas while the PNP were around to keep the peace and order. I must confess it’s no different from celebrating in Cagayan de Oro, except that I think Talakag is a lot cooler, less crowded and more organised.

Obituary - Danilo Flores Santiago

My brother, Danilo Flores Santiago, died 23rd July 2009 at the age of 44 while in Maria Reyna Hospital, Cagayan de Oro City, after a short illness. We held his funeral service today 1st August 2009 in Talakag Baptist Church followed by internment at the Santiago Memorial Garden.

Danny was born on 6th August 1964 in Cagayan de Oro City to Gloria and Ferminito Santiago, and brother to Tess, Lulu, Carlos, Junior, Leo and Julie. He was married to Rosalyn Imperio and they raised 2 sons, Winston and Robinson.

“Danny was one of the kindest people you could ever meet and he will be sorely missed.”

RIP: Mr Alfredo Tampo

Mr Alfredo Tampo died suddenly last Sunday after suffering a heart attack in the Plaza, Talakag, Bukidnon. After an overnight wake in Barangay 1 Hall, his body was transferred to Malaybalay City where the funeral was held today. He will be sorely missed by his Talakag friends, work colleagues and students.

Acrobatic Show in Talakag

Thousands came to watch the “New Millennium Acrobatic Show” in the Gym, Talakag Public Plaza during the Valentine’s Weekend. The group is normally based in Baguio City but is currently on tour around the country. Mr Randil F. Villajuan, the instructor/manager, promised to put on the “best show for the family” for only 20 pesos per person. True to his word, the performers delivered and featured different acrobatic formations. Clowns with their usual tricks entertained the crowd during intervals.

I thought that the balancing acts were very good. What made them more thrilling was the absence of safety nets. They were so daring that some people were willing the acrobats not to fall; while others were shouting for more stunts. A child behind me was praying loudly “Oh God! Please keep them safe” and another woman said that she could feel her toes curling under her chair hoping that such act would help the acrobats concentrate and cling on the tight rope. The danger factor certainly kept the crowd’s attention.

By 11:00 pm the show was over and everyone left (on foot, on bicyles or aboard trisikads, motorelas, trucks, vans, jeepneys, etc) with their own stories to tell. When in Talakag, you can’t help but go along to public entertainment (such as this) as part of your social engagements, otherwise you would miss out on what everyone is talking about. Of course, I was there! It was full house. My advice for the future events like this is get there early and bring your own chair. Also position yourself well away from the entrance as late comers tend to push themselves in and can block your view.