The College of Social Sciences (CSS) spearheaded the activity titled “𝘕𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘢 𝘔𝘪, 𝘕𝘢𝘢𝘥𝘢𝘭 𝘔𝘪: Understanding Gender and Sociocultural Heritage of the Cordilleras through Intercultural Exchange.” The event was held at the College of Arts and Sciences Annex Open Grounds on April 22, 2025.

In his opening remarks, CSS Dean Stanley F. Anongos Jr. encouraged the participants to continue honoring and recognizing their own heritage. He also shared the struggles in integrating the Cordillera heritage into the curriculum and thanked the Commission on Higher Education for their initiative.

Soraya T. Faculo, Schools Division Superintendent of Baguio City, then shared the Department of Education’s experiences in integrating cultural activities into the curriculum. She also highlighted to the participants that they attended the event to learn and showcase their experiences in cultural exchange.

Faculo shared three insights into understanding the Cordillera culture and heritage. The first insight emphasized the importance of knowing the context behind the beliefs, customary law, and dances. She encouraged the participants to learn deeper about the history and the meaning behind these practices. The second insight centered on the participants to continue investigating and immersing themselves in the culture. She acknowledged that the event was the first step in appreciating the culture being studied and encouraged the participants to continue learning. The third insight focused on appreciating the variations of culture. She hoped that the participants would see the different variations of culture and uniqueness in the event.
Gigy G. Banes, CSS Extension and Gender and Development Coordinator, then shared the rationale of the activity. She mentioned that majority of the participants were from the lowland areas, who accepted the challenge of learning the Cordillera culture, and hoped that the students would effectively present what they had gathered. Banes also said that the activity is an avenue for intercultural exchange and an avenue for cultural expression.

The messages were followed by the presentation of Cordillera indigenous songs, dances, and foods by Bachelor of Secondary Education and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine students. Indigenous games and a community dance was also held in the afternoon.//BTayaban
📸EBawang