Lara Pearl Alvarez - First Igorota to join world's top reality game show "The Apprentice"

Photo Courtesy || One Championship

Cordillera - Proud Cordilleran Lara Pearl Alvarez is one of the two Filipino bets who joined the ONE Championship's edition of the hit reality television series "The Apprentice" hosted by ONE chairman and CEO Chatri Sidyothong. 

Alvarez wanted to become an inspiration to her countrymen and to people around the world that's why she joined the "The Apprentice".

The proud Igorota of Team Lakay, a former wushu practitioner who hails from the city of Baguio dedicates her participation to her one-year-old son Marcuz David.

“I just wanted to give my son a better life, that’s what compelled me to try and audition for The Apprentice,” said Alvarez. “At the time, I didn’t really imagine I could get in. But I was determined to give it a shot. So when I got the news that I was accepted, I was in shock. I just couldn’t believe it. But I was super happy I got in, and from there, I was motivated to succeed.” Alvarez said.

Alvarez got pregnant and abandoned by her boyfriend when she was 22 years old. Such misfortune didn't stop her to pursue her dreams to become an accountant. She took the role as a single mother for her child while studying and training with Team Lakay.

READ ALSO: Ifugao fighter Loman leaves Brave to join Team Lakay brothers in ONE Championship

Soon, a wonderful opportunity knocked on her door, she was among the 16 candidates from 11 countries that were announced to join the global hit TV reality show.

"I've been trough a whole lot, and everything I've done so far is for my son to have a better life. Up to now, I still can't believe I was on The Apprentice. I'm glad I took a chance. It's made me a stronger person, and a better mother today," Alvarez said. 

Alvarez had come to realize that being a single mother is not a setback but a blessing for those who don't gave up on their dreams.

"I've gained more confidence in myself. I think I've proven that being a single mother is not a setback. It is far from a setback. It's a blessing because I was able to push myself harder. It gave me the strength to push past my limits," Alvarez added. 

Watch the trailer of the upcoming "The Apprentice" - ONE Championship Edition

“The Apprentice: ONE Championship Edition” is touted as the toughest version in the show’s history, consisting of both business and physical challenges.

It premieres on March 18, 2021 on AXN, the show's official Asian broadcast partner.

The reality show will also be available on other platforms and TV networks across Asia in March, including MediaCorp (Singapore), Abema (Japan), KompasTV (Indonesia), Amarin TV (Thailand), LINE TV (Thailand), TV5 Network (Philippines), and HTV (Vietnam).

Another Baguio-born candidate who joined the "The Apprentice" is Louie Sangalang, a former URCC undefeated featherweight champion.

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Proud Igorot working as Deputy Constable and SWAT member in Texas, USA

Photo Courtesy || Jeffry B. Tyanan || One Philippines

Cordillera - A proud Igorot from the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) is working as a Deputy Constable at Fort Bend County Pct. 3, Katy, Texas in the United States of America (USA).

Jeffry B. Taynan is also a member of the agency's Special Response Team  of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT). 

Taynan's job and his team is patrolling the Cinco Ranch area of Katy, Texas by vehicle or on foot, to prevent crimes and enforce the law.

Taynan traces his roots from Kabayan, Benguet but grew up in Baguio City where he studied Bachelor of Science in Accountancy and Bachelor of Law at Saint Louis University (SLU).

READ ALSO: 

Julius Maguiwe - First Igorot officer to graduate from US Coast Guard Academy 

He worked with the Supreme Court of the Philippines as a Court Legal Researcher of the Family Court of Benguet in La Trinidad in 2000 - 2011. 

In 2011, Taynan and his family migrated to the United States of America where he took up Accountancy course at Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas and went to Gus George Law Enforcement Academy in Richmond, Texas. 

Taynan also graduated from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Ramsey Training Academy in Rosharon, Texas. 

READ ALSO: Igorot OFW donates P50,000 to buy rice for his hometown in Kabayan, Benguet

As a member of the  Fort Bend County's Deputy Constable, Taynan's job is risky but with his regular trainings as a member of the Special Response Team (SWAT) he is ready to accept missions and is also calm to help deescalate situations by cultivating genuine compassion, according to One Philippines.

He believes in the Divine guidance so he always pray that he'll be able to go home to his family safely every after his shift.

source || One Philippines

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I-Besao cop is the new police director of Mountain Province - PRO-COR

Photo Courtesy || PROCOR

Cordillera - PROCOR’s Regional Director PBGEN R’WIN S PAGKALINAWAN installed POLICE COLONEL RUBEN BAWAAN ANDISO as the Acting Provincial Director of Mountain Province Police Provincial Office (PPO) during the turn-over of command ceremony held at Camp Major Bado Dangwa, La Trinidad, Benguet on February 11, 2021. 

PCOL ANDISO replaced the outgoing Provincial Director PCOL HOMER M PENECILLA, during the formal turnover rites which officially designated him to the position effective February 8, 2021. 

During the ceremony, the Regional Director awarded the Medalya ng Kasanayan (PNP Efficiency Medal) to the outgoing Provincial Director, PCOL PENECILLA, for his eminently meritorious leadership at Mountain Province PPO from February 24, 2020 to February 9, 2021. He also thanked him for his contributions especially in the implementation of ELCAC initiatives in the province for almost a year. 

As he assumes office, PCOL ANDISO enjoined the men and women of Mountain Province PPO to work together for the good of the people of Mountain Province. “Gawis nan kasin suma-a”, the new Mountain Province top cop said, who traces his roots from Barangay Kin-iway, Besao,Mountain Province. 

PCOL ANDISO was the former Chief, Administrative and Resource Management Division under the PNP’s Headquarters Support Service (HSS). According to him, it is only now that he is assigned in the region in his almost 30 years in the PNP service. 

“It’s high time for you to be back home serving your own province”, says PBGEN PAGKALINAWAN as he welcomed the incoming Acting Provincial Director.  “Pursue what the outgoing PD have started with as much, if not more vigor, passion and dedication. The people of Mountain Province awaits you”, he added.

source || PROCOR

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READ: Message of hope and encouragement from La Trinidad Mayor Romeo K. Salda

Photo Courtesy || Mayor's Office - La Trinidad FB

Cordillera - A true public servant and like a concerned father to his children, La Trinidad Mayor Romeo K. Salda wrote a heartwarming message of hope and encouragement to his constituents to keep them strong amid the pandemic.

Read his full message below:

Dear Kailyan:

I understand the suffering you may be experiencing right now: hopelessness, quarantine fatigue, confusion, anxiety, isolation or an inexplicable sense of doom and despair. But in experiencing these, remember that you are not alone. Everyone does. And it is okay. 

The brighter side to being human is that we are capable of being and doing much, much more. So amid the daily struggles and the pandemic, do not lose hope. Never lose hope. More so: Never, ever take your own life.

To our youth and children:

When you feel like the world’s uncool, everything’s uncool, your day’s uncool, remember that the world doesn’t end with a heartache or a frustrating friend or a lousy grade. Believe that a day of profound love, laughter and a diploma will soon come, since it always surely does. 

Remember your dreams and why they are worth waking up for, living for, every minute of the day. Yes. Bad times there will be, but so will good times; and the more you grow, you will soon see how each experience actually nourishes you, strengthens you to be the best of who you are.

Keep the faith. You have so much ahead you. You are filled with so much promise and are capable of so much goodness. 

You are loved. You matter. Your opinion matters. Your feelings matter. Share them. Your parents, your friends, your teacher, Pastor, Priest or counsellor, they’ll be there. Always, there will be an ear willing to listen, a hand willing to help, a friend who will laugh even at your corniest jokes. So hang in there, okay? Everything will be okay.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

To the parents: Times are tough; and in our daily struggles, we may be missing out on why we are working hard in the first place: our children. So, always find time for your children. Reach out. Talk to them. Know the warning signs. And more importantly, once spotted, swiftly act on them.

To all community members: Check in on someone - especially, our young ones - you may be concerned about. Listen to what they have to say, how they say it and show them kindness and support. Drown the noise of stigma and spread the message of love instead. Suicides find feeble footing in an atmosphere of love.

Let us not allow our present circumstance to dim the prospects of a better tomorrow – a brighter tomorrow, for one day, it will come. 

I call on all members of the La Trinidad community to be one supportive community. A burden shared is made lighter by each hand willing to carry that weight. Let us thus join hands – at least, figuratively, for the moment – in carrying that weight in our shared pursuit to heal as one.

For our LA TRINIDAD SUICIDE PREVENTION Hotline, please do not hesitate to text or call the following: 

Ms. May Claire Jimenez: 0917 859 2657

Ms. Cristina Anioay: 0910 343 6595

MAYOR ROMEO. K. SALDA

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WATCH: Ifugao undefeated boxer Carl James Martin knocks Tejones out in 5th round

Photo Courtesy || Carl James Martin

Cordilleran - Cordilleran boxing sensation Carl James "The Wonder Boy" Martin won via TKO against experienced fighter Joe Tejones in "Night of Champions XXII scheduled on February 20, 2021. 

Sponsored by the Elorde International Productions, the fight between Martin vs Tejones took place at the Biñan Football Stadium in Biñan City, Laguna.

The 21-year-old Martin who hails from Lagawe, Ifugao is one of the country's rising boxing stars and believed by many boxing experts and fans to be the next Manny Pacquiao. 

Martin currently holds the record of 16 wins (14 KOs) with no defeat. 

He is rated No.39 in the bantamweight rankings of the World Boxing Council (WBC).

Last year, Martin emerged victorious in his recent fight against experienced Richard Rosales during the Omega Pro Sports International boxing event on December 18, 2020.

The fight of Martin vs. Tejones will be telecasted via PTV channel on February 21 at 11 AM to 12 noon. 

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Proud Igorota working at Malacanang calls on educators to come up for better ways to depict IPs

Photo Courtesy || Marie Rafael-Banaag

Cordillera - Presidential Communications Operation Office (PCOO) Assistant Secretary Marie Rafael-Banaag takes a stand concerning cultural sensitivity and has called on concerned agencies to come up with  better ways to depict Indigenous Peoples (IPs) in the country. 

“We call on publishers, writers, fellow workers in government, the Department of Education (DepEd), and the National Commission on Indigenous People to work on better ways in coming up with how different indigenous peoples are depicted. And, making our children understand and appreciate the cultural sensitivities of each tribe, not only for us but for other indigenous groups," PCOO Assistant Secretary Banaag said via PNA.

Banaag took her stand on the issue of the Igorots being misrepresented in some of DepEd learning modules.

She said, Igorots are people born in the Cordilleras who come from the different tribes and of ethnic ancestry but are neither barbaric nor ignorant that other people have in their minds.

Banaag who hails from Mt. Province said Igorots have high pride of their ancestry and respect for elders. 

READ ALSO: Igorot soldiers sought-after in Mindanao because "they are full of courage and they don't complain

“I was raised by my parents who take pride in who they are as a people. We grew up listening to stories of bravery and honor of our forefathers. We grew up learning our native dances and respecting our rituals. More than anything, we were taught the value of giving due respect to our elders and take pride in every sacrifice they have gone through,” she said.

“I am proud of my roots, my tribe and the people I call ‘kailyan’ (town mates) and we attach our lives to the land we and/or our ancestors lived and had toiled. We are just proud, no whys,” she added.

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Igorot Capt. Dwight Dulnoan leads most elite group of the Philippine Navy - NAVSOG

Photo Courtesy || Dwight Steven Dulnoan

Cordillera - The Naval Special Operations Group or NAVSOG of the Philippine Navy has a new commander in the person of Captain Dwight Steven M. Dulnoan. 

Commander Captain Dulnoan replaced Captain Andro Val P. Abayon who relinquished his duties and responsibilities as the Commander of NAVSOG during the Change of Command Ceremony on July 4, 2019.

The Change of Command Ceremony was presided by Commander Philippine Fleet Rear Admiral Giovanni Carlo J. Bacordo. 

Commander Dulnoan is a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Maalab Class of 1993. 

He was previously the Deputy, Joint and Combined Training Center of AFP Education, Training and Doctrine Command, GHQ-AFPWSSU, AFP. 

The Naval Special Operations Group (NAVSOG) is a separate command of the Philippine Navy trained in special operations, sabotage, psychological and unconventional warfare and is heavily influenced by the United States Navy SEALs.

The training program of NAVSOG is known as Basic Naval Special Operations Course (BNSOC). The program is physically and mentally demanding and is regarded as one of the toughest military selection programs around the world. 

Learn more about NAVSOG by watching the video below:

Candidates have to swim 3 kilometers and run 10 kilometers every day. Furthermore, they must swim 14.6 nautical miles from Roxas Boulevard in Manila to Sangley Point, Cavite City without any rest. 

They also undergo "Hell Week", considered as the most demanding week of BNSOC training.

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Cordilleran from Kalinga among members of new P-pop group 'ALAMAT'

Photo Courtesy || Alamat

Cordillera - A Cordilleran lad from Tabuk, Kalinga is among the members of the new P-pop group named "Alamat" (legend).

20-year-old Brylle Jordan Sebastian Uyam with a stage name 'Taneo' and Code name 'Gattok' is the Leader, Main Dancer, Sub-Vocalist and Visual of the group which composed of 9 members who hail from different parts of the country. 

The group is set to release their debut song on February 14, 2021 titled "kbye" under Viva Entertainment. 

ALAMAT is an upcoming 9-member male idol group from Philippines that sings in several local languages under Viva Artists Agency. 

The group consists of Taneo, Mo, Tomas, R-ji, Kin, Valfer, Alas, Gami and Jao.

Alamat released the members’ concept photo outfits referencing locally made materials, traditional and cultural designs, and Filipino textiles. 

Uyam outfit shows the cultural reference of a Kalinga warrior tattoo and the Kalinga traditional weave design. 

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Ifugao fighter Loman leaves Brave to join Team Lakay brothers in ONE Championship

Photo Courtesy || Mark Sangiao & One Championship

Cordillera - The longest reigning BRAVE Combat Federation Bantamweight champion Stephen "The Sniper" Loman is leaving his throne to join his Lakay teammates in ONE Championship. 

Team Lakay head coach Mark Sangiao on a post on Facebook has confirmed the news last night.

"Stephen Loman is one of the best fighters in the Philippines. His all-around skills will be on full display in ONE Championship. I spoke to Stephen and he's highly motivated right now. He can't wait to get in the Circle and put on a show. Of course, I'll be there for him, as well as all of his teammates at Team Lakay, every step of the way," Sangiao said.

The undefeated fighter of Brave CF  has also confirmed the news.

“It’s an overwhelming opportunity, but I’m excited to join my Team Lakay brothers in the biggest martial arts organization in the world," Loman said.

Loman is departing the Middle East promotion with 13 wins and 2 defeats making him the biggest star in the promotion. 

Joining ONE champion would present a new challenge for Loman but would be a great new environment to showcase his skills in the cage. 

"I’m excited to enhance my skills on this platform and showcase my style to millions of viewers across the globe. Of course, fighting in a new promotion and a new environment will be a challenge, but it’s one I’m more than willing to face. I’m ready to show ONE Championship fans the best of Stephen Loman," he added.

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SLU grad lands 5th in January 2021 medtech licensure exam

Photo Courtesy || Angelica Mae Aguilar

Cordillera - A graduate of the Saint Louis University (SLU) in Baguio City was among the top 10 passers of the January 2021 Medical Technologist (Medtech) licensure examination.

Angelica Mae Bautista Aguilar of SLU landed on the 5th spot with a score of 89.60.

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) on Monday, February 8, announced the results of the licensure exams for practicing medtechs on its Facebook page.

Aguilar was the only graduate of the Cordillera-based university who made it to the list of top 10 passers.

Here are the names of passers in the top 10:

1. Fred Lawrence Delantar Samante (St. Scholastica’s College-Tacloban) – 91.40

2. Angelo Pansoy Huliganga (Far Eastern University-Nicanor Reyes Med. Found.) – 91.20

3. Tiffany Jane Bautista Cabildo (Medical College of Northern Philippines)- 90.00

4. Bonifacio Sinnung Coloma (Far Eastern University-Nicanor Reyes Med. Found.) -89.80

5. Angelica Mae Bautista Aguilar (Saint Louis University) – 89.60

6. Salvador Cabrigas Sampayan Jr. (Southwestern University) – 89.50

7. Jacque Andrei Vergara Ramos (St. Paul University-Tuguegarao) – 89.30

8. Clarisse Althea Deodato Adduru (Cagayan State University- Andrews Campus) – 89.00

Raisa Manzano Mirza (University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Mem. Medical Center) – 89.00

9. Tom Kairo Tallud Pacquing (Cagayan State University- Andrews Campus) – 88.90

10. Albright Dew Banan Baua (Cagayan State University- Andrews Campus) – 88.80

Princess Erica Bonete Garcia (University of Perpetual Help System-Laguna)- 88.80

Nathanielle Mae Umpar Rosal (Far Eastern University-Nicanor Reyes Med. Found.)- 88.80 

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) said 1,919 out of 2,835 passed the January 2021 Medical Technologist Licensure Examination.

The licensure examination was administered in the cities of Manila, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Legazpi, Lucena, Pampanga, Tacloban, Tuguegarao and Zamboanga last January.

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Hashtag #i_am_a_proud_igorot: The Igorots have once again shown their unity amidst adversities.

Background Images Courtesy to proud Igorots 

Cordillera - With FB being flooded by posts of Igorots who are living in various corners of the world and who are proudly waving their ethnicities,  one could not be prouder of his/ her own lineage. In the posts are a kaleidoscope of colors from various woven apparel, worn not only by men and women of Igorot descent, but also by  brethren who have embraced our rich cultural heritage or those who have come to appreciate the uniqueness and intricate designs of our products. 

With our actions, together, we are now educating our countrymen who for some reasons have failed to know that Igorots are very much like their counterparts in other regions when it comes to physical attributes. 

Indeed, it is quite pitiful that at this age, many are still wallowing in their ignorance of the bodily make up of their Filipino brothers. But sadder still is that learning materials were entrusted to people within the educational system and whose orientation is obviously founded on myths. Education, indeed, is a lifelong journey - we need to step up in the crafting of learning materials. (Whatever happened to consultants?)

In his letter to DepEd Secretary Leonor M. Briones dated February 4, 2021, Congressman Maximo Y. Dalog,  Jr. strongly expressed the people of Mountain Province's adverse reactions caused by derogatory terms or demeaning allusions about Igorots. Subsequently,  he requested for the immediate investigation of said learning materials and for DepEd to employ corrective measures. 

"Igorots had long been discriminated because of erroneous information about our people, identity and culture. We want to put an end to this. We wish you could help us," Cong. Dalog stated in his letter. 

"Our group, Autonomy Advocates, is working with the RDC and DepEd for the correction of erroneous teaching materials and modules.   CAR has produced outstanding Igorots in sports, beauty pageants, arts, and in other fields," Atty. Amador P. Batay-an, former NCIP Regional Director, said.

And the concerted efforts bore fruit. https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1116195798808416&id=635217473572920

But despite the indignation and the frustrations felt as a consequence of such display of ignorance and misinformation, the ever-resourceful Igorots unknowingly turned this sad experience into an advantage. With the beautiful variegated woven apparel and other Indigenous products we have shown, we are promoting our local industries/ indigenous products. This undeliberate promotion will be most helpful to our local weaving and sewing industry and to our OTOP hubs. At this time when income is at its lowest, we are more inspired to promote our products via social media. The latest DepEd experience is telling us to do more...we need to tell the world that Igorots are also producers and entrepreneurs as well. We need to tell that we have quality coffee bean products, peanut butter, muscovado sugar, fruit wines, vinegar and even food items that are readily accessible online - donuts, fried chicken, cakes, Hainanese steamed chicken, pasta delicacies, pizza...name it, we have them in town, ready to be delivered at one's convenience. The Igorot has come a long way.

But more than just the economic contribution, we are teaching the world a lesson on the truth about the proud Igorot existence and ancestry...not just in looks but also in all other aspects. Let the Igorot be a teacher of history on indigeneity or of the indigenous people of the Cordillera. We have to admit that even at this time, people still stick to that old adage, "To see is to believe." So,  now, we are showing them. The Igorot is by nature humble with her/ his achievements and physical attributes but give her/him a reason to stand up and she/ he will in all her/his glory.

Furthermore,  we  use this present situation as an avenue to educate others on how the Igorots have made their marks in various fields not only in the Philippines but in many parts of the world.  The Igorots are at par with their counterparts, at any given time and place. The Igorot is one of the most versatile creation. She/ he, too, is multi-lingual and adapts well to any environment.

And more importantly, still, we have  come to really appreciate and love our own culture. While we have embraced other cultures,  we never forgot our own rich heritage and are now more than ever prouder to shout to the world that we are Igorots, who just like any other person on earth, were made in God's image and not the wrongly perceived people that some poor souls repeatedly bash on social media and write about in books. Obviously, they have not crossed paths with Igorots.

source || Novy Del Rosario Afidchao

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Writer of erroneous learning material apologizes over discriminating portrayal of Igorots

Photo Courtesy || DepEd Logo - Wikipedia

Cordillera - The writer of the erroneous learning materials portraying Igorots having curly hair and look different from ordinary Filipino in terms of appearance has sent an apology letter to the Department of Education (DepEd).

The teacher-writer who sent an apology letter to DepEd said she had no intention to degrade the Igorots in the learning materials. 

She further added she was unaware of the impacts it caused to the Igorot people and assures that it will not happen again. 

The region where the learning materials were distributed admitted they were not able to check into the examples used in the materials during the quality assurance process.

Recently Congressman Dalog, Jr. of Mt. Province has sent a letter to DepEd secretary Briones to look into some learning modules which apparently contain discriminating portrayal of the Igorots. 

The Department of Education has come into mass barrage of criticism on social media for not fact checking of the learning materials and its apparent lack of knowledge about the Igorots. 

A trending proud Igorot challenge with a hashtag #i_am_proud_igorot_challenge has been posted and shared by proud Igorots to show the real real appearance of Igorots as opposed to what it described in the erroneous learning modules. 

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PH's city mayors expressed full support to Baguio Mayor Benjie Magalong

Photo Courtesy || baguio.gov.ph & LCP

Cordillera - The League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP) has expressed its utmost support and unwavering faith in the leadership of Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong. 

LCP National President and Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia has sent a letter to Mayor Magalong lauding his leadership as the Coronavirus disease (Covid-19) Contact Tracing Czar. 

The LCP president said Magalong's comprehensive and systematic contact tracing approach empowers various local government units using Baguio's innovative ICT solutions.

“Under his clear direction as the city mayor, Baguio City managed to reduce their COVID-19 transmissions consistently. The city was allowed to gradually re-open its local economy while still following health protocols,” Leonardia said in his letter adding this was lauded nationwide as best practice.

Recently, Magalong was heavily criticized on social media for attending a social gathering wherein many believed the mayor had breach health protocols which then prompted him to resign as contract tracing czar.

The LCP commended Magalong for admitting his lapses and offering resignation saying such action according to LCP is an act of humility and integrity. 

"We commend his strong commitment to accountability and justice that serves as a beacon of hope to his fellow city mayors and other public servants," the LCP letter reads.

source || JMS via Baguio Public Information Office FB.

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Mt. Province Cong. Dalog, Jr. urges DepEd to correct erroneous information about the Igorots

Photo Courtesy || Maximo "Maxi" Y. Dalog, Jr.

Cordillera - Mt. Province Congressman Maximo Y. Dalog, Jr. has wrote a letter to Department of Education (DepEd) secretary Leonor M. Briones to amend erroneous portrayal of Igorots in learning modules dated February 4, 2021.

In his letter, Cong. Dalog specifically mentioned one learning module authored by Dr. Felicidad N. Remo and Ms. Avelina S. Espelita who in their book had described the Igorots as having curly hair. 

"We disagree on such account because in reality, a person with curly hair does not truly represent the actual appearance of an Igorot," Dalog pointed out. 

"We wish to informed the aforementioned authors that physically, we Igorots are generally similar with the Filipino majority like that of Dr. Remo and Ms. Espelita," he added. 

Dalog expressed the majority sentiments of his fellow Igorots on social media regarding some circulating photos of wrong portrayal of Igorots in learning modules. 

"We are immeasurably alarmed, offended and annoyed by such portrayal and description of us, just because we are Igorots. In view hereof, I earnestly urge the Department of Education to look into this matter by investigating/reprimanding those responsible and correct errors in the books and modules," Dalog said. 

The Mt. Province lawmaker has also reminded his fellow Igorots to always treat others equally and fairly.

"...Being Igorots does not give us the liberty to discriminate other, too. After all, we are one human race created into the image and likeness of God. Therefore, we all should treat each other equally and fairly," Dalog wrote in his official Facebook page.

Photo Courtesy || Maximo "Maxi" Y. Dalog, Jr.

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Cong. Eric Yap to summon DepEd officials over inaccuracy in learning materials

Photo Courtesy || Cong. Eric Yap

Cordillera - Benguet Legislative Representative Congressman Eric Yap has called on the Department of Education to conduct massive review of some of the modules containing discriminatory remarks about the Igorots. 

Yap said he will file a House Resolution in Congress and summons DepEd officials to explain the inaccuracy and sign of incompetency in the learning modules of students.

Here is the full message of Congressman Eric Yap:

I strongly condemn these photos circulating online. It is unbelievable that these made its way to the learning modules of our students. Nakakagalit. Nakakadismaya. It is not clear whether it forms part of a textbook, a module or a test sheet, but regardless of its form and context, this is an insult, an obvious form of discrimination and a mockery of our rich culture in the Cordillera. 

What message are we sending our students reading these? Okay lang na ma-bully ang bata dahil sa kanyang anyo? Okay lang ma-discriminate dahil sa kasuotan? Sa murang edad ng mga estudyante, ito ang ituturo natin? If we do not act on this, the day will come that our heritage and culture in Cordillera will die a natural death because it will be perceived as something that should be ashamed of. We will not allow that to happen. 

I call on the Department of Education to undertake a massive review of its textbooks and other materials used in schools. I urge Secretary Briones to issue a Department Order instructing teachers nationwide to forbid them from using discriminatory statements such as those shown in photos in preparing their modules. This is not the first time that this happened and at this point, the Department should take responsibility. The buck stops with you. 

This is an issue that we will definitely raise in Congress through a House Resolution that I will file and we will summon DEPED officials to shed light on this matter. Not only for this incident, but for every inaccuracy and sign of incompetence in our learning materials.

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ABS CBN news anchor Bernadete Sembrano is a proud Igorota from Mt. Province

Photo Courtesy || Bernadette Sembrano IG

Cordillera - One of the news anchors of Philippine's biggest TV network ABS CBN is an Igorota from Bontoc, Mountain Province. 

Bernadette Sembrano-Aguinaldo is a TV reporter, a journalist and a radio broadcaster. She is one of the co-anchors of ABS CBN's TV Patrol.

Bernadette's mother, Ellaine Dominguez Sembrano is a councilor of Baguio City. 

Sembrano is one of the most loved and admired Filipina reporters and hosts. 

With her many years in the field, her heart for news and television have gained her numerous awards. 

In her career as a journalist, Bernadette received numerous awards for her solid reputation in the TV industry.

- Most Admired Female TV Personality (from 2005-2010), Anak TV Seal Awards

- One of Best Morning Show Hosts for Umagang Kay Ganda (from 2008-2011), Star Awards for TV

- Best Public Service Program Host (Salamat Doc) 2012 6th Gandingan Awards

- Female Broadcast Journalist of the Year for TV-Rotary Club of Manila Journalism Awards 2014

- Best TV Anchor (Dateline Philippines) - 13th Gawad Tanglaw 2015

- Best Female Morning Host (Umagang Kay Ganda)-2016 Paragala Awards

- Best Female News Anchor - (TV Patrol) Golden Laurel LPU Batangas Media Awards 2017

In one of her Instagram post, Bernadette posed a photo with Team Lakay head coach Mark Sangiao and Eduard Folayang. She wrote, "he (Folayang) belongs to the kankanaey tribe, ako naman Bontoc ang roots!" with a hashtag "#igorotak"

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Sign of Life: Beautiful common kingfisher spotted at Balili River

Photo Courtesy || Ronald Zambrano

Cordillera - There are signs of life to the infamous dead Balili River in La Trinidad, Benguet after some birds have been spotted playing and breeding in the river. 

Photo Courtesy || Ronald Zambrano

Photographer Ronald Zambrano shared on social media some photos he captured at the river during his visit on January 2021. 

"It took me only about 15 minutes to document signs of life, there are birds.. 7 breeding pairs of egrets, Moorhen (Tukling), yellow wagtail (kinnud kinud), and yellow vented bulbul. Except for the Bulbul, all observed birds, depend on fish as the main source of food. Meaning there is life or fishes literally in the waters that sustain these birds." Zambrano wrote.

The presence of these flying creatures indicates Balili river has hope of life. The Moorhen is found in fresh water environment. This species of bird feed on seeds, leaves and roots from aquatic plants, algae, small fish, tadpole, insects, berries and worms. 

In 2014, the river was declared as biologically dead by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) due to overpopulation and chemical spill coming from the big establishments in the municipality. 

Knowing the severity of the situation, the Barangay and its community acted fast to save the river. With the partnership of different institutions such as the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO), DENR, and the Benguet State University, they passed an ordinance mandating all officials and residents to conduct a clean-up drive every first Saturday of the month.

Now, we are seeing the result of this initiative as the river is slowly showing signs of life. 

May the residents of Balili river continue their effort on keeping up their campaign in cleaning the river.

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DepEd Cordillera top official urges immediate correction of wrong depiction of Igorots

Photo Courtesy || DepEd Tayo Cordillera

Cordillera - “When a wrong concept keeps repeated, this might be accepted as the truth that is why we need to respond to it right away and for those responsible to correct it immediately.”

This was stressed during DepEd CAR’s Convocation yesterday by DepEd CAR Regional Director Estela L. Cariňo relative to the issue on some modules circulating on social media over the past few days maligning, discriminating, and wrongly depicting Igorots.

As an Igorot herself, Director Cariňo urgently called on the attention of the regions and schools division offices using such modules to make the necessary and urgent changes.  

The DepEd official added that Cordillerans may contribute to the wrong concept and incorrect depiction of Igorots if they keep silent. 

“I am an Igorot and proud of it and we need to respond to such issues and not keep mum about it,” Cariňo said.

 She further called on all education stakeholders to help in creating awareness on indigenous people and to be part of the system that correct these learning materials not by bashing or ignoring it but by calling the attention of the basic education department through its proper channels like the DepEd Error Watch, the official Facebook Pages of DepEd, and even her Office directly.

“Not all can be seen or monitored by the Learning Resource personnel or the Curriculum and Learning Management Division (CLMD) especially for self-learning modules developed locally in other places,” said the Director.

Anyone can send errors on modules to DepEd through bit.ly/DepEdErrorWatch or by email through errorwatch@deped.gov.ph, text and messaging through Viber at 0961-6805334; Facebook messaging through DepEd Error Watch account and the DepEd Tayo Cordillera page.

Netizens are also encouraged to use hashtag #depederrorwatch when posting complaints on social media sites. The hashtag will help monitor the complaints.

“We are disheartened that these errors circulate nationwide but we hope our collective efforts will change wrong concepts of indigenous people like us especially in areas that Igorots are not the majority,” she added.

As of press time, through the swift action of DepEd CAR officials, the regions and school division offices that have wrong and bias depictions of Igorots are complying with the urgent requests to rectify their modules.

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Arthur Codod: The first Igorot to join Who Wants to be a Millionaire

Photo Courtesy || Arthur Stevenson Kodon

Cordillera - A proud Igorot from Benguet joined the Philippine version of Who Wants to be a Millionaire on May 4, 2014. 

Arthur Stevenson Codod, a registered nurse of the Department of Health walked away with P250,000 check after playing the Classic Money Tree game hosted by actor Vic Sotto. 

"I say it over and over again I am a proud Igorot. I am proud of my culture, our values that were passed to us by our great ancestors. Whenever I am and whatever I do, I do it the Igorot way," Codod said in a statement. 

Codod appeared as one of contestant in the Philippine version of Who Wants to be a Millionaire hosted by Vic Sotto. 

In the show, Codod wore the Igorot bahag and a traditional Cordillera head-dress while answering series of questions from the host. 

Who Wants to Be a Millionaire is an international television game show first concepted in England by  David Briggs, Mike Whitehill, and Steven Knight. It is currently owned and licensed by Sony Pictures Television. 

Large cash prizes are offered to contestants for correctly answering a series of multiple-choice questions with increasing (or, in some cases, random) difficulty. 

The maximum cash prize in the original British version was one million Pounds. Most international versions offer a top prize of one million units of the local currency; the actual value of the prize varies widely, depending on the value of the currency. 

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Baguio city readies opening of Loakan airport for commercial flights

Photo Courtesy || PAL Wikipedia

Cordillera - The opening of the Loakan airport for commercial flights to facilitate easier and more convenient way for tourists to visit the Baguio is nearing its realization. 

The city government is working closely with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) for the opening of the airport to resolve and address flight safety issues. 

Last month, an airline company has conducted test flight from Manila to the only airport of Baguio city to prepare for the resumption of commercial flights.

The city has started evaluating and assessing safety requirements of the airport such as constructing an alternative road at the western part of the airport to permanently close the road used by pedestrian and motorists.

Police from Station 4 and personnel from the Aviation Security Group were tasked to provide traffic assistance during flights.

Required traffic signages at the airport are also being put in place and trimming of trees besides the airport is being done by the City Environment and Parks Management Office.

READ ALSO:  Philippine Black Hawks landed in Loakan airport for the very first time

Baguio city mayor Benjamin Magalong is hopeful that the opening of the Loakan airport for commercial flight will help in reviving the tourism industry of the city.

"The resumption of flights... will play a key role in convincing high-end tourists to prioritize Baguio City as one their preferred destination," Magalong said.

Philippine Airlines (PAL) has opened up its interest in providing Manila-Baguio and Baguio-Manila for tourists.

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