The Department of Tourism Region 10, headed by DOT-X Regional Director Marie Elaine S. Unchuan, in collaboration with the Local Government Unit of Malaybalay City, hosted the Philippine Experience Program (PEP) on May 24, 2024, at the Kaamulan Open Theatre, Malaybalay City. PEP – Northern Mindanao (NorthMin) is a series of activities that include local cultural music and dance performances, eco-tourism tours, and showcases of local and indigenous products of the Province of Bukidnon. The event provided participants and guests an opportunity to engage with local communities and learn about their ways.

Malaybalay City is one of the key destinations of PEP-NorthMin, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the province and offering a glimpse of Kaamulan through performances by the LGU-Malaybalay Kaamulan dancers and the Bukidnon State University Chorale and Dance Troupe. The event also featured a local products fair, including hinabol, paintings, arts, beads, and pasalubong items.

DOT Secretary Atty. Christina Garcia Frasco attended the event, along with the Province of Bukidnon Governor Rogelio P. Roque, 4th District Congresswoman Hon. Laarni L. Roque, and Malaybalay City Mayor Hon. Jay Warren R. Pabillaran. Ms. Marife Ravidas Ganahon, a Manlilikha ng Bayan Awardee and Higaonon Mat Weaver from the city, was also present.

Atty. Frasco remarked that Bukidnon has truly preserved the rich culture of the province. She felt goosebumps upon arriving at the venue and watching the welcoming dance performance.

Exhibitors of local artworks and products at the event included Cakeboom, Manlilikha ng Bayan, Manalog Hinabol Weavers, Tagolwanen Women Weavers Association (TWWA), Mugna Leather Arts, Paula’s Bukidnon Delights, Mc2, Bukidnon Bead Accessories, and other local painters and artists.

Contributors: APRIL ZANE L. FERNANDEZ, ASLEA C. MAI, JIANY BON B. BAGIOHAN – City Tourism-NADA