Benguet, Philippines – The province of Benguet is considering a Panagbenga-like festival to celebrate its 124th foundation anniversary in 2024, as revealed by Lone District Representative Eric Yap.
According to Philippines News Agency, discussions with the governor and vice governor have already taken place regarding showcasing the province’s cultural heritage during the Adivay celebration, coinciding with the foundation anniversary. The proposed celebration aims to attract tourists, boosting local businesses and generating income for Benguet residents and the local government. Yap seeks to garner support from the 13 municipalities and the capitol, particularly in logistics, to make the event successful.
Benguet, known as the "salad bowl" of the Philippines, features vegetable gardens, scenic landscapes, and various tourist attractions like Mt. Pulag National Park, mummy burial caves in Kabayan, strawberry fields in La Trinidad, and flower gardens in Atok. Yap emphasized the resilience of the Benguet people, who have endured natural calamities while maintaining their livelihoods.
The Adivay festival also includes traditional rituals, such as the butchering of over a hundred pigs and cows as offerings to gods and ancestors. These rituals involve native priests interpreting the animals’ bile and include communal activities like dancing, gong-beating, and sharing of boiled meat without spices, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Benguet people.