By ANGEL YUSORES
BSU Intern

YESTERDAY, Malaybalay City in Bukidnon celebrated the vibrant and culturally rich Kaamulan Festival, an annual gathering that honors the province’s seven indigenous tribes: Bukidnon, Higaonon, Talaandig, Manobo, Matigsalug, Tigwahanon, and Umayamnon.

Following the ground competition, Plomo Ninita, a member of the Matigsalug tribe, shared her sentiments on the importance of respecting and appreciating the festival. She emphasized how peaceful and well-organized this year’s celebration has been, especially for vendors like her.

“Compared to last year, this year’s Kaamulan Festival is much more peaceful and eventful for us, as it gives us more opportunities to sell without being forcefully dragged leading us to low income,” said Ninita.

BETTER OPPORTUNITIES. Plomo Ninita, a member of the Matigsalug tribe, attends the 2025 Kaamulan Festival in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, where she expressed appreciation for the peaceful and organized celebration that allows better opportunities for indigenous vendors. Photo by Angel Yusores

She also reminded the public of the true purpose of the event — Panagtapok, or the gathering of the seven tribes — and expressed frustration over other unrelated activities taking place simultaneously.

“It is not good and insulting at the same time that we are in Malaybalay and celebrating Kaamulan yet they are celebrating another variety of events,” she said.

Meanwhile, Mars, a tourist attending the festival, noted the joyful atmosphere this year.

JOY. A tourist named Mars enjoys the festive atmosphere at the 2025 Kaamulan Festival in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, saying this year’s celebration feels more vibrant and engaging compared to previous years. Photo by Angel Yusores

“I think this year’s Kaamulan Festival is more fun because we spent our day longer than before — last time, we had just a last-minute visit,” he said.

The Kaamulan Festival continues to serve as a vital platform for cultural expression, tribal unity, and community engagement in Bukidnon.