A Higaonon “bae” bangs the gong to signal the official opening of Kaamulan Festival in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, over the weekend. The Kaamulan is held to celebrate the culture and tradition of the seven ethnic tribal groups—Bukidnon, Higaonon, Talaandig, Manobo, Matigsalug, Tigwahanon and Umayamnon—the “original” inhabitants of the province. (PHOTO BY JILLIAN BACARISAS)

A Higaonon “bae” bangs the gong to signal the official opening of Kaamulan Festival in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, over the weekend. The Kaamulan is held to celebrate the culture and tradition of the seven ethnic tribal groups—Bukidnon, Higaonon, Talaandig, Manobo, Matigsalug, Tigwahanon and Umayamnon—the “original” inhabitants of the province.(PHOTO BY JILLIAN BACARISAS)