Pangasinan town passes ordinance promoting indigenous cultural practices in schools

By Eva Visperas

In a move to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of indigenous communities, the municipality of San Nicolas in Pangasinan has passed an ordinance mandating the integration of indigenous songs (Bakliw), dances (Tayaw), and traditional musical instruments into the Araling Panlipunan and MAPEH (Music, Arts, PE, and Health) subjects for indigenous students in both public and private elementary and high schools.

The ordinance was approved last week by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and aims to ensure that these cultural practices are passed on to future generations.

Indigenous songs, dances, and instruments are central to the identity of the I-owak/Iwak Tribe of Barangay Fianza, the Kalanguya Tribe of Barangay Malico, and the Ibaloy Tribe of Barangay San Felipe East. These practices have been handed down through the generations, but the ordinance points out that their teaching has been increasingly neglected in schools, especially in the more remote mountain areas of the municipality.

Authored by IP Municipal Representative Felixfrey Lorenzo, the ordinance stresses the urgency of preserving these traditions. It said that without action, there is a risk that important aspects of indigenous culture—such as Bakliw, Tayaw, and instruments like solibaw (drums), ganza (gongs), bamboo (bolo), and wooden sticks—could be lost to future generations, diminishing the cultural identity of the Indigenous Peoples (IP) of San Nicolas.

The ordinance draws on Republic Act 8371, also known as the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act of 1997, which calls for the recognition, respect, and protection of the rights of Indigenous Peoples to preserve their cultural practices. The Act emphasizes the importance of state support in helping these communities maintain their cultural integrity.

To promote the revitalization of indigenous traditions, the municipality will organize an annual competition showcasing indigenous songs, dances, and musical instruments during the Indigenous People’s Thanksgiving Day. The competition will offer reasonable prizes and rewards to encourage wider participation. 

Also, the municipality will assist in procuring indigenous musical instruments as needed, subject to available funds. The ordinance also encourages barangays and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) to contribute to these efforts, ensuring that the cultural heritage of the indigenous communities in San Nicolas is preserved for generations to come.