With all the paraphernalia needed for the exhibit/booth display, the group started for Manila from Lagawe, Ifugao on board the service van lent by the Hon. Vice Governor Nora Dinamling, fueled by the gas donation of Hon. Board Member Joseph "Jojo" Odan of District 2. That was on the 7th of April 2008 at around 9:00 in the evening.
We reached Congressman Chungalao's residence where we were accomodated well (big thanks) and where we made our headquarters for the duration of the exhibit. we started cutting the letterings for our booth and also setting up what we need to set up for the booth display. We slept late, I at 2:30m A.m. April 9, 2008, while the others slept at 5 A.M. the same morning. http://josh21020.multiply.com/photos/album/35/
we woke up early for the opening of the exhibit proper at the Megamall. Eric called for cab. as we were on the Tandang Sora flyover, the left front wheel of the cab went flat! we had to get out of the cab and try to look for a replacement cab but to no avail because most of the cabs that passes along the said flyover is loaded with passengers. the cab driver (in his oldies) is hard-up getting the flat tire out and placing the new tire in place and so Uncle Conrad had to help him. we spent almost 30 minutes under the schorching sun at the flyover! then suddenly, the ISCAF Ambulance (driven by a person who knows Jeremy) stopped by after having recognized us. I went directly to the driver explaining what had happened and that we had to hurry to the Mega mall for the exhibit as it is now 9:30 am (we started at Congressman Chungalao's residence at 8:30 am and the exhibit opens at 10am). the Ambulance driver told me to speak to an Emajawjaw in the FX following the ambulance. when I went near the FX, anagkha ta un gayam hi Manong Charlie Nangpuhan! so they assisted us by giving us a ride (in the ambulance) and dropping us off a place where we can hire a replacement taxi (because they were also rushing and as much as they want to bring us to the exhibit place, time is also off the essence for them)...and so we were able to reach Mega mall in time for the formal opening of the exhibit...whew! http://josh21020.multiply.com/photos/album/36/
This is day 2 of the exhibit. everyone is now relaxed since the interview by the jurors had already been finished and that the tension has now settled as we have not experienced any inconveniences in the morning, unlike the day before, Day1, where we encountered the flyover incident :-). The kids are now free to roam around the exhibit area and that they have already mastered the ins and outs of the area so everytime we send them for refreshments, they come back quickly and easily not getting lost among the crowd. our other companions also went for shopping while some stays to manage the booth and to entertain the visitors and to offer free kamote (boiled and in strips) and ricewine. The group had made many friends because of the kamote (which they say is masarap daw and they keep coming back and even bringing other friends with them to taste the imported kamote na masarap. imported from the mountains of Talboc, Mayoyao, Ifugao, one of the beneficiary barangays). By the way, the uniform of the group for the day2 is yellow (painted by me overnight). The Pembo ladies came to visit us during this day and even had a pose with the Governor when he came to visit our booth. in the afternoon of Day2 is the announcement of winners and awarding of grants... http://josh21020.multiply.com/photos/album/37/
And then the MOMENT arrived...official representatives of all finalists were seated at the designated area while the closing program starts. then the awarding followed...
EMCEE: "The third winner of the World Bank Project Grant Award is from the North!"...at this, I looked at ate Polen (COO of SITMo) who was seated beside me.....
EMCEE: "...from the mountains..." ...Ate Polen and I held hands at this moment in time when the EMCEEs continue to give the clue as to who is the Third World Bank Awardee...
EMCEE: "Saan kaya ito? (referring to the place where the mysterious grantee came from)"... I clenched my hands and ready to hear the words which will announce to the entire nation who that 3rd Awardee/Grantee is...
EMCEE: "Entry No. 0184, Pochon and...." ...I didn't hear anymore the words following the big announcement as i leaped from my chair and heard the cheering crowd (for sure those who helped in the preparation of the booth shouted with joy upon hearing that Pochon won the Award) and looked for Jeremy at the back to help me claim the award (take note, I was on Mayoyao native Attire)...and as we approach the stage area, we can still hear the cheers of those who might have shared our sweet kamote. I'm still overwhelmed even as I return to my seat with the announcemnt still ringing in my ears... at last, the sacrifices of the group has paid up...and this award is not just for the group, but for Mayoyao as well... http://josh21020.multiply.com/photos/album/38/
Monday, April 14, 2008
Sunday, March 9, 2008
IGKHUMTAD AD MAJAWJAW TOUR 2008
IGKHUMTAD AD MAJAWJAW TOUR 2008
April 25-27, 2008
Mayoyao, Ifugao
Package Cost : Php4,100.00/pax
Inclusions:
Transportation within the province
Meals (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners, 2 snacks)
Accomodation (lodge)
Tour Guide Fee
Entrance Fees
Contribution to Igkhumtad
Environmental Fee
Cultural Show
Exclusions:
Transportation (Manila-Santiago, Banaue-Manila)
Insurance
ITINERARY
APRIL 24, 2008
8:30 P.M. - ETD, Manila (Victory Liner Bus Kamuning/Kamias Station)
APRIL 25, 2008 (DAY 1) – FRIDAY
5 A.M. - ETA, Santiago City
- Breakfast at Santiago City
- Travel to Mayoyao (via Alfonso Lista & Aguinaldo, Ifugao)
9:30 A.M. - ETA, Mayoyao (in time for the Pfinnulog – Ethnic Parade)
- Room assignments
11 A.M. - Trek to O’phaw Mahencha Falls (w/ 1 hour trek one way, uphill-downhill)
12 N.N. - Picnic lunch at the Falls
3 P.M. - Trek back to Poblacion
5 P.M. - Free time
7 P.M. - Dinner
- Igkhumtad evening activities
APRIL 26, 2008 (DAY 2) – SATURDAY
7 A.M. - Breakfast
8 A.M. - Igkhumtad activities (Ethnic sports)
- Snacks
- Igkhumtad activities (Ethnic sports)
12 N.N. - Lunch
- Igkhumtad activities (Ethnic sports)
2 P.M. - Visit to Apfo’or Burial Tombs
- Trek down Mayoyao Proper Rice Terraces (downhill)
5 P.M. - Travel back to Poblacion
7 P.M. - Dinner
8 P.M. - Museum Exhibit
- Igkhumtad evening activities
- Rest
APRIL 27, 2008 (DAY 3) – SUNDAY
7 A.M. - Breakfast
8 A.M. - Travel to Chu’it Viewpoint
10 A.M. - Travel to Banaue
12 N.N. - Lunch at Midway
3 P.M. - At Banaue
- Banaue Viewpoint
- Shopping for souvenirs
5:30 P.M. - Departure for Manila (Autobus)
APRIL 28, 2008
3 A.M. - ETA, Manila (Autobus Sampaloc Station)
April 25-27, 2008
Mayoyao, Ifugao
Package Cost : Php4,100.00/pax
Inclusions:
Transportation within the province
Meals (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners, 2 snacks)
Accomodation (lodge)
Tour Guide Fee
Entrance Fees
Contribution to Igkhumtad
Environmental Fee
Cultural Show
Exclusions:
Transportation (Manila-Santiago, Banaue-Manila)
Insurance
ITINERARY
APRIL 24, 2008
8:30 P.M. - ETD, Manila (Victory Liner Bus Kamuning/Kamias Station)
APRIL 25, 2008 (DAY 1) – FRIDAY
5 A.M. - ETA, Santiago City
- Breakfast at Santiago City
- Travel to Mayoyao (via Alfonso Lista & Aguinaldo, Ifugao)
9:30 A.M. - ETA, Mayoyao (in time for the Pfinnulog – Ethnic Parade)
- Room assignments
11 A.M. - Trek to O’phaw Mahencha Falls (w/ 1 hour trek one way, uphill-downhill)
12 N.N. - Picnic lunch at the Falls
3 P.M. - Trek back to Poblacion
5 P.M. - Free time
7 P.M. - Dinner
- Igkhumtad evening activities
APRIL 26, 2008 (DAY 2) – SATURDAY
7 A.M. - Breakfast
8 A.M. - Igkhumtad activities (Ethnic sports)
- Snacks
- Igkhumtad activities (Ethnic sports)
12 N.N. - Lunch
- Igkhumtad activities (Ethnic sports)
2 P.M. - Visit to Apfo’or Burial Tombs
- Trek down Mayoyao Proper Rice Terraces (downhill)
5 P.M. - Travel back to Poblacion
7 P.M. - Dinner
8 P.M. - Museum Exhibit
- Igkhumtad evening activities
- Rest
APRIL 27, 2008 (DAY 3) – SUNDAY
7 A.M. - Breakfast
8 A.M. - Travel to Chu’it Viewpoint
10 A.M. - Travel to Banaue
12 N.N. - Lunch at Midway
3 P.M. - At Banaue
- Banaue Viewpoint
- Shopping for souvenirs
5:30 P.M. - Departure for Manila (Autobus)
APRIL 28, 2008
3 A.M. - ETA, Manila (Autobus Sampaloc Station)
Igkhumtad Ad Majawjaw (pronounced as ig-khoom-tad) is the annual Town Festival of Mayoyao, Ifugao scheduled every April 25-27. It is a term used in the Hud-Hud (Ifugao Epic) to describe how the first five districts in Mayoyao manage to meet once in a year to compete with one another in terms of native games. Their usual meeting place is the center of Mayoyao known to be as Chu’likhan (Ducligan). During the olden times, it was Aliguyon who was known to be always winning in the games being played. Nowadays, the Igkhumtad is the equivalent of a Fiesta where people from the different Barangays of Mayoyao go to the Poblacion and compete with one another at the same time socializing with the people from other places outside their barangay.
Day 01 of the tour brings the visitors to witness the Pfinnulog or the Grand Ethnic Parade featuring the different competing districts clad in native attire with their respective floats representing their team. Also, the visitors will get to bathe in one of the enchanting waterfalls with cool, clean, and clear natural pools behind the canopy of trees on mountain slopes, the O’phaw Mahencha Falls. Local folklore says that a beautiful woman named Mahencha had to jump about 13-15 meters into the water to retrieve her necklace, which fell while taking a bath. In the evening will be a continuation of the Igkhumtad activities but more of a literary/musical category.
As for Day 02, the participants will get to witness the different ethnic sports played among the competitors. Events will include the Tajaw (Native Dance) Competition, the Iinnat (Tug-of-war), Pfato’n Lohong (Stone Craft), Backstrap Weaving, Talaid chi Chotar (stick mat weaving), Hiwwo’ (Native Dart), and many more. The participants might even be called upon to facilitate some of the ethnic games. The afternoon will be spent trekking down the Mayoyao Proper Rice Terraces which includes a visit to the Apfo’or Burial Tombs, an igloo-type burial tomb where the brave warriors were being buried during the olden times. In the evening will be a continuation of the evening Igkhumtad activities. The museum will be also opened for the participants to visit and be briefed on the ethnic displays.
Day 03 will be more of sightseeing where the participants will visit Chu’it viewpoint, a good spot to view the extensive Mayoyao Rice Terraces. Afterwards, the participants will travel to Banaue for more sightseeing and for souvenir shopping, passing by the Bangaan Rice Terraces and Village along the way to Banaue.
The best time of the year to view the Ifugao Rice Terraces is during summer where the palays are at its greenest state. So don’t miss the chance to experience the Mayoyao culture and the sight of the enchanting Mayoyao Rice Terraces. Join the Igkhumtad ad Majawjaw Tour 2008!
Day 01 of the tour brings the visitors to witness the Pfinnulog or the Grand Ethnic Parade featuring the different competing districts clad in native attire with their respective floats representing their team. Also, the visitors will get to bathe in one of the enchanting waterfalls with cool, clean, and clear natural pools behind the canopy of trees on mountain slopes, the O’phaw Mahencha Falls. Local folklore says that a beautiful woman named Mahencha had to jump about 13-15 meters into the water to retrieve her necklace, which fell while taking a bath. In the evening will be a continuation of the Igkhumtad activities but more of a literary/musical category.
As for Day 02, the participants will get to witness the different ethnic sports played among the competitors. Events will include the Tajaw (Native Dance) Competition, the Iinnat (Tug-of-war), Pfato’n Lohong (Stone Craft), Backstrap Weaving, Talaid chi Chotar (stick mat weaving), Hiwwo’ (Native Dart), and many more. The participants might even be called upon to facilitate some of the ethnic games. The afternoon will be spent trekking down the Mayoyao Proper Rice Terraces which includes a visit to the Apfo’or Burial Tombs, an igloo-type burial tomb where the brave warriors were being buried during the olden times. In the evening will be a continuation of the evening Igkhumtad activities. The museum will be also opened for the participants to visit and be briefed on the ethnic displays.
Day 03 will be more of sightseeing where the participants will visit Chu’it viewpoint, a good spot to view the extensive Mayoyao Rice Terraces. Afterwards, the participants will travel to Banaue for more sightseeing and for souvenir shopping, passing by the Bangaan Rice Terraces and Village along the way to Banaue.
The best time of the year to view the Ifugao Rice Terraces is during summer where the palays are at its greenest state. So don’t miss the chance to experience the Mayoyao culture and the sight of the enchanting Mayoyao Rice Terraces. Join the Igkhumtad ad Majawjaw Tour 2008!
For pictures of the ethnic games, please see this link:
Monday, January 14, 2008
An Invitation to Join Bfukhay/Pfukhay Tour 2008
Friends,
The Pochon Group is once again inviting you to join the Bfukhay/Pfukhay Ad Majawjaw 2008 Tour (Rice Planting in Mayoyao Tour) this coming February 8-10, 2008 at Mayoyao, Ifugao. This is still part of the Group’s advocacy to help maintain and preserve our cultural heritage as its contribution to preserving the Mayoyao Rice Terraces. Part of the proceeds of the tour goes to the heritage trust fund to help the Mayoyao People promote their indigenous culture.
The Bfukhay 2008 Tour brings the participants to experience rice planting with the Mayoyao Community; witness the demo on Native House Construction and the showcasing of the Mayoyao Native dances (tajaw) and Ethnic Ensemble during the Cultural Night; and a chance for shopping at the Banaue Town Center.
Please support this tour as it helps the Mayoyao Community by bringing in tourism income and encouraging community participation in the conservation and restoration of their ancestral domain.
Thank you very much.
Yours truly,
JOAN SHEELAH (Josh) O. NALLIW
Pochon Group President
+639064826300
BFUKHAY/PFUKHAY AD MAJAWJAW 2008 TOUR PACKAGE
February 8-10, 2008
Mayoyao, Ifugao
Package Cost: Php3,700.00
Inclusions:
Transportation within the Province Tour Guide Fee
Meals (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners, Cultural Night
1 snack on day 2 only) Entrance Fees
Lodging Environmental Fee
Exclusions:
Transportation from Manila to Ifugao (and back)
Travel Insurance
Day 1 of the tour will be a trek at the Chaya Rice Terraces, the coldest point in Central Mayoyao. This part of Mayoyao produces the freshest Water Crest in the municipality. The trek will start from the Acacoy Nature Park, another good spot to view the municipality sitting atop the rice terraces.
In the evening of Day 1 will be a demo on native house construction and a lecture on the native house structure and components by the Indigenous Knowledge holders in Mayoyao.
On Day 2, the participants will get to experience planting rice with the Mayoyao Community after the demo on the mechanics of planting. Lunch will also be shared with the community.
There will be interaction with the community on the cultures and traditions of the Mayoyao People. After the interaction will be a trek down the rest of the Mayoyao Rice Terraces.
In the evening will be the showcasing of the Cultural Presentation by the young people of Mayoyao. The tajaw (native dances) and the ethnic ensemble will be the main content of the presentations.
Day 3 will be more on sightseeing. The participants will proceed to Chu’it Viewpoint where they can view the entirety of the extensive Mayoyao Rice Terraces. The afternoon will be spent shopping at the Banaue Town Center.
Itinerary
Day 1
6 a.m. - Arrival of visitors in Santiago City
- Travel to Mayoyao, Ifugao
7:30 a.m - Breakfast at Ubao, Aguinaldo, Ifugao
10 a.m. - Arrival in Mayoyao
- Rest
11 a.m - Early Lunch
12 n.n - Start trek to Chaya Rice Terraces
5-6 p.m. - Free time
7 p.m. - Dinner
8-10 p.m. - Demo on native house construction
- Rest
Day 2
7 a.m. - Breakfast
8 a.m. - Trek to planting site
- Participation in the Bfukhay’
- Snacks
12 n.n. - Lunch with the community
1 p.m. - Interaction with the community on cultures and traditions
3 p.m. - Trekking down Mayoyao Proper Rice Terraces
5-6 p.m. - Free time
7 p.m. - Dinner
8-10 p.m. - Cultural Night
Day 3
7 a.m. - Breakfast
8 a.m. - Travel to Chu’it Viewpoint
10 a.m. - Travel to Banaue with lunch at midway
3 p.m. - Arrival at Banaue
- Shopping for souvenirs
5-6 p.m. - Departure of visitors
For reservation and inquiries, contact us:
Pochon Group
Poblacion, Mayoyao
3602 Ifugao
Mobile: +639064826300 (Josh Nalliw)
E-mail: pochon.group@gmail.com, josh21020@gmail.com
Deadline for reservations will be on February 1, 2008.
The Pochon Group is once again inviting you to join the Bfukhay/Pfukhay Ad Majawjaw 2008 Tour (Rice Planting in Mayoyao Tour) this coming February 8-10, 2008 at Mayoyao, Ifugao. This is still part of the Group’s advocacy to help maintain and preserve our cultural heritage as its contribution to preserving the Mayoyao Rice Terraces. Part of the proceeds of the tour goes to the heritage trust fund to help the Mayoyao People promote their indigenous culture.
The Bfukhay 2008 Tour brings the participants to experience rice planting with the Mayoyao Community; witness the demo on Native House Construction and the showcasing of the Mayoyao Native dances (tajaw) and Ethnic Ensemble during the Cultural Night; and a chance for shopping at the Banaue Town Center.
Please support this tour as it helps the Mayoyao Community by bringing in tourism income and encouraging community participation in the conservation and restoration of their ancestral domain.
Thank you very much.
Yours truly,
JOAN SHEELAH (Josh) O. NALLIW
Pochon Group President
+639064826300
BFUKHAY/PFUKHAY AD MAJAWJAW 2008 TOUR PACKAGE
February 8-10, 2008
Mayoyao, Ifugao
Package Cost: Php3,700.00
Inclusions:
Transportation within the Province Tour Guide Fee
Meals (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners, Cultural Night
1 snack on day 2 only) Entrance Fees
Lodging Environmental Fee
Exclusions:
Transportation from Manila to Ifugao (and back)
Travel Insurance
Day 1 of the tour will be a trek at the Chaya Rice Terraces, the coldest point in Central Mayoyao. This part of Mayoyao produces the freshest Water Crest in the municipality. The trek will start from the Acacoy Nature Park, another good spot to view the municipality sitting atop the rice terraces.
In the evening of Day 1 will be a demo on native house construction and a lecture on the native house structure and components by the Indigenous Knowledge holders in Mayoyao.
On Day 2, the participants will get to experience planting rice with the Mayoyao Community after the demo on the mechanics of planting. Lunch will also be shared with the community.
There will be interaction with the community on the cultures and traditions of the Mayoyao People. After the interaction will be a trek down the rest of the Mayoyao Rice Terraces.
In the evening will be the showcasing of the Cultural Presentation by the young people of Mayoyao. The tajaw (native dances) and the ethnic ensemble will be the main content of the presentations.
Day 3 will be more on sightseeing. The participants will proceed to Chu’it Viewpoint where they can view the entirety of the extensive Mayoyao Rice Terraces. The afternoon will be spent shopping at the Banaue Town Center.
Itinerary
Day 1
6 a.m. - Arrival of visitors in Santiago City
- Travel to Mayoyao, Ifugao
7:30 a.m - Breakfast at Ubao, Aguinaldo, Ifugao
10 a.m. - Arrival in Mayoyao
- Rest
11 a.m - Early Lunch
12 n.n - Start trek to Chaya Rice Terraces
5-6 p.m. - Free time
7 p.m. - Dinner
8-10 p.m. - Demo on native house construction
- Rest
Day 2
7 a.m. - Breakfast
8 a.m. - Trek to planting site
- Participation in the Bfukhay’
- Snacks
12 n.n. - Lunch with the community
1 p.m. - Interaction with the community on cultures and traditions
3 p.m. - Trekking down Mayoyao Proper Rice Terraces
5-6 p.m. - Free time
7 p.m. - Dinner
8-10 p.m. - Cultural Night
Day 3
7 a.m. - Breakfast
8 a.m. - Travel to Chu’it Viewpoint
10 a.m. - Travel to Banaue with lunch at midway
3 p.m. - Arrival at Banaue
- Shopping for souvenirs
5-6 p.m. - Departure of visitors
For reservation and inquiries, contact us:
Pochon Group
Poblacion, Mayoyao
3602 Ifugao
Mobile: +639064826300 (Josh Nalliw)
E-mail: pochon.group@gmail.com, josh21020@gmail.com
Deadline for reservations will be on February 1, 2008.
Tuesday, May 8, 2007
Bfoto' ad Majawjaw Tour
BFOTO’ AD MAJAWJAW TOUR PACKAGE
June 22-24, 2007
Mayoyao, Ifugao
Package Cost: Php3,500.00
Inclusions:
Transportation within the Province
Tour Guide Fee
Meals (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners,
1 snack on Day 2 only)
Cultural Night
Entrance Fees
Lodging (Mayoyao Hostel- 3 double beds/room
Souvenir T-shirt
Environmental Fee
ID and Certificate
Exclusions:
Transportation from Manila to Ifugao (and back)
Travel Insurance
“Get involved with the Mayoyao Community in harvesting what had been sown by bare hands equipped with only pure culture thereby saving a world heritage. Join the Pochon Group’s BFOTO’ AD MAJAWJAW Package Tour, in cooperation with SITMo, the Mayoyao Municipal Local Government Unit, and the Mayoyao Community.”
Harvesting rice is a community activity. There are defined roles for every person joining the harvest. The Munbfoto’ (the one who actually reaps the grown rice stalks) are usually women. They cut the rice stalks and hand them over to the Mun-akun. The Mun-akun, after collecting the rice stalks from the Munbfoto’, will now give them to the Munbfa-ud who will tie the rice stalks in bundles estimating and balancing each bundle so that they will be proportionate. Having tied the rice stalks in bundles, the Munbfa-ud will now give the bundles to the Munkhongah whose job is to trim any protruding stalks to make the bundle look neat. The Munkhongah will then give the bundle to the Munkhu-ud so he can properly arrange the bundles in the rice granary. The Munkhu-ud cannot leave, even though the harvest is finished, unless he had arranged all the bundles in the rice granary. Such is part of the culture of the Mayoyao People. Another actor in the harvest is the Munhang. The Munhang cooks for the community helping in the harvest. A highlight during the harvest is that the women Munbfoto’ chants the native songs of the Uw-wai’ (native chants) while harvesting the grown rice stalks. Ricewine is likewise served while the harvest is going on being a traditional practice of the Mayoyao People.
Day 1 of the tour will be a picnic at the O’phaw Mahencha (Leap of Mahencha) Falls with 1 ½-hour trek in one of the virgin forests of Mayoyao. In the evening will be a concert-jamming with the Pochon Group Band.
On Day 2, the participants will get to experience harvesting rice with the Mayoyao Community. They can choose their participation in the harvest: the Munbfoto’, Mun-akun, Munbfa-ud, Munkhongah, and Munkhu-ud. In the afternoon, they will proceed to the Marian Center, a perfect place for relaxation and meditation. Beside the Center is the Hecheng Falls where an image of the Mama Mary can be clearly seen during rainy season when there is plenty of water. Local folks call the image as the Hidden Madonna. In the evening will be the cultural presentation of the Mayoyao Community.
Day 3 will be more on sightseeing. The participants will proceed to Chu’it Viewpoint where they can view the entirety of the extensive Mayoyao Rice Terraces. Afterwards, the participants will be ushered to the Acacoy Park, a nature park and at the same time Fish nursery. The Park offers a refreshing sight of the Chaya Rice Terraces. The afternoon will be spent shopping at the Banaue Town Center.
Itinerary
Day 1
5 a.m. Arrival of visitors in Santiago City
Travel to Mayoyao, Ifugao
Breakfast at Ubao, Aguinaldo, Ifugao
9 a.m. Arrival in Mayoyao
Room assignments at the Hostel
9:30 a.m. Trek to O’phaw Mahencha Falls (with 1 ½-hour trek)
12 n.n. Lunch at the Falls
3 p.m. Travel to Poblacion
5-6 p.m. Free time
7 p.m. Dinner
8-10 p.m. Concert-jamming with Pochon Group/Rest
Day 2
6-7 a.m. Breakfast
8 a.m. Trek to harvest site
Participation in the Bfoto’
12 n.n. Lunch with the community
1 p.m. Participation in the Bfoto’
Snacks
3 p.m. Travel to Marian Center
5-6 p.m. Free time
7 p.m. Dinner
8-10 p.m. Cultural Night
Day 3
6-7 a.m. Breakfast
8 a.m. Trek to Chu’it Viewpoint
Travel to Acacoy Park
10 a.m. Travel to Banaue with lunch at midway
3 p.m. Arrival at Banaue
Shopping for souvenirs
5-6 p.m. Departure of visitors
For reservation and inquiries, contact us:
Pochon Group
Poblacion, Mayoyao
3602 Ifugao
Mobile: +639064826300, +639214524262
E-mail: acer098@gmail.com, josh21020@yahoo.com
Deadline for reservations will be on June 8, 2007.
June 22-24, 2007
Mayoyao, Ifugao
Package Cost: Php3,500.00
Inclusions:
Transportation within the Province
Tour Guide Fee
Meals (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners,
1 snack on Day 2 only)
Cultural Night
Entrance Fees
Lodging (Mayoyao Hostel- 3 double beds/room
Souvenir T-shirt
Environmental Fee
ID and Certificate
Exclusions:
Transportation from Manila to Ifugao (and back)
Travel Insurance
“Get involved with the Mayoyao Community in harvesting what had been sown by bare hands equipped with only pure culture thereby saving a world heritage. Join the Pochon Group’s BFOTO’ AD MAJAWJAW Package Tour, in cooperation with SITMo, the Mayoyao Municipal Local Government Unit, and the Mayoyao Community.”
Harvesting rice is a community activity. There are defined roles for every person joining the harvest. The Munbfoto’ (the one who actually reaps the grown rice stalks) are usually women. They cut the rice stalks and hand them over to the Mun-akun. The Mun-akun, after collecting the rice stalks from the Munbfoto’, will now give them to the Munbfa-ud who will tie the rice stalks in bundles estimating and balancing each bundle so that they will be proportionate. Having tied the rice stalks in bundles, the Munbfa-ud will now give the bundles to the Munkhongah whose job is to trim any protruding stalks to make the bundle look neat. The Munkhongah will then give the bundle to the Munkhu-ud so he can properly arrange the bundles in the rice granary. The Munkhu-ud cannot leave, even though the harvest is finished, unless he had arranged all the bundles in the rice granary. Such is part of the culture of the Mayoyao People. Another actor in the harvest is the Munhang. The Munhang cooks for the community helping in the harvest. A highlight during the harvest is that the women Munbfoto’ chants the native songs of the Uw-wai’ (native chants) while harvesting the grown rice stalks. Ricewine is likewise served while the harvest is going on being a traditional practice of the Mayoyao People.
Day 1 of the tour will be a picnic at the O’phaw Mahencha (Leap of Mahencha) Falls with 1 ½-hour trek in one of the virgin forests of Mayoyao. In the evening will be a concert-jamming with the Pochon Group Band.
On Day 2, the participants will get to experience harvesting rice with the Mayoyao Community. They can choose their participation in the harvest: the Munbfoto’, Mun-akun, Munbfa-ud, Munkhongah, and Munkhu-ud. In the afternoon, they will proceed to the Marian Center, a perfect place for relaxation and meditation. Beside the Center is the Hecheng Falls where an image of the Mama Mary can be clearly seen during rainy season when there is plenty of water. Local folks call the image as the Hidden Madonna. In the evening will be the cultural presentation of the Mayoyao Community.
Day 3 will be more on sightseeing. The participants will proceed to Chu’it Viewpoint where they can view the entirety of the extensive Mayoyao Rice Terraces. Afterwards, the participants will be ushered to the Acacoy Park, a nature park and at the same time Fish nursery. The Park offers a refreshing sight of the Chaya Rice Terraces. The afternoon will be spent shopping at the Banaue Town Center.
Itinerary
Day 1
5 a.m. Arrival of visitors in Santiago City
Travel to Mayoyao, Ifugao
Breakfast at Ubao, Aguinaldo, Ifugao
9 a.m. Arrival in Mayoyao
Room assignments at the Hostel
9:30 a.m. Trek to O’phaw Mahencha Falls (with 1 ½-hour trek)
12 n.n. Lunch at the Falls
3 p.m. Travel to Poblacion
5-6 p.m. Free time
7 p.m. Dinner
8-10 p.m. Concert-jamming with Pochon Group/Rest
Day 2
6-7 a.m. Breakfast
8 a.m. Trek to harvest site
Participation in the Bfoto’
12 n.n. Lunch with the community
1 p.m. Participation in the Bfoto’
Snacks
3 p.m. Travel to Marian Center
5-6 p.m. Free time
7 p.m. Dinner
8-10 p.m. Cultural Night
Day 3
6-7 a.m. Breakfast
8 a.m. Trek to Chu’it Viewpoint
Travel to Acacoy Park
10 a.m. Travel to Banaue with lunch at midway
3 p.m. Arrival at Banaue
Shopping for souvenirs
5-6 p.m. Departure of visitors
For reservation and inquiries, contact us:
Pochon Group
Poblacion, Mayoyao
3602 Ifugao
Mobile: +639064826300, +639214524262
E-mail: acer098@gmail.com, josh21020@yahoo.com
Deadline for reservations will be on June 8, 2007.
Monday, April 16, 2007
Igkhumtad Tour updates
The Igkhumtad Tour is actually an all-in-one package covering the Annual Town Fiesta of Mayoyao (featuring ethnic games where participants to the tour can help facilitate) and also the Grand Imbayah Festival of Banaue (ricewine festival celbrated by the Banaue townsfolk every 3 years of fruitful produce from the rice terraces)...
PLUS!
a bonus peek at the Ifugao Rice Terraces in its grrenest state because the Rice stalks will be at its greenest come summertime, making it the best part of the year to view the rice terraces...
Participants will enjoy not only the good view Mayoyao but also can have a refreshing dip at the O'Phaw Mahencha (Leap of Mahencha) Falls, one of the mythical falls in Mayoyao...and aside from the adventurous trek to the Falls, the participants will also get to be involved in the successful celebration of the Town's Annual Town Fiesta: The Igkhumtad!
so, don't miss the opportunity! Contact :
THE POCHON GROUP
Mobile Nos.: 09064826300,09214524262
E-mail: acer098@gmail.com
Payment procedures will be given after submitting accomplished registration/confirmation form
For the registration/confirmation form, e-mail us: acer098@gmail.com
PLUS!
a bonus peek at the Ifugao Rice Terraces in its grrenest state because the Rice stalks will be at its greenest come summertime, making it the best part of the year to view the rice terraces...
Participants will enjoy not only the good view Mayoyao but also can have a refreshing dip at the O'Phaw Mahencha (Leap of Mahencha) Falls, one of the mythical falls in Mayoyao...and aside from the adventurous trek to the Falls, the participants will also get to be involved in the successful celebration of the Town's Annual Town Fiesta: The Igkhumtad!
so, don't miss the opportunity! Contact :
THE POCHON GROUP
Mobile Nos.: 09064826300,09214524262
E-mail: acer098@gmail.com
Payment procedures will be given after submitting accomplished registration/confirmation form
For the registration/confirmation form, e-mail us: acer098@gmail.com
Thursday, March 29, 2007
IGKHUMTAD TOUR
Igkhumtad Ad Majawjaw (pronounced as ig-k-hoom-tad) is the annual Town Fiesta of Mayoyao, Ifugao scheduled every April 25-27. It is a term used in the Hud-Hud (Ifugao Epic) to describe how the first five districts in Mayoyao manage to meet once in a year to compete with one another in terms of native games. Their usual meeting place is the center of Mayoyao known to be as Chu’likhan (Ducligan). During the olden times, it was Aliguyon who was known to be always winning in the games being played. Nowadays, the Igkhumtad is the equivalent of a Fiesta where people from the different Barangays of Mayoyao go to the Poblacion and compete with one another at the same time socializing with the people from other places outside their barangay.IGKHUMTAD AD MAJAWJAW TOUR PACKAGE
April 27-29, 2007
Mayoyao, Ifugao
Package Cost: P3,200.00 per participant
Inclusions:
Transportation within the province
April 27-29, 2007
Mayoyao, Ifugao
Package Cost: P3,200.00 per participant
Inclusions:
Transportation within the province
Tour Guide Fee
Meals (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners)
Meals (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners)
Cultural night
Environmental Fee
Environmental Fee
Entrance Fees
Lodging (Inn accommodations and homestays);
Limited accommodations for homestays
Exclusions:
Transportation to Ifugao from Manila or Baguio (and back)
Travel Insurance
Snacks
Special discounts for students in group (minimum of 5 persons)
Day 1 of the tour brings the tourists to participate in the Igkhumtad by judging in certain contested ethnic games at the Poblacion grounds. The contested events/games will be ethnic games. In the afternoon will be a visit to the Marian Center where the Hidden Madonna Falls is situated. The participants will also visit the Abfo’or Burial Tombs where, during the olden times, the bodies of brave warriors were being buried. It is an igloo-type musoleum.
On Day 2, the participants will have a picnic at the O’phaw Mahencha (leap of Mahencha) Falls, with 1 ½ hours trek.
Day 3 will be more of sightseeing at Chu’it Viewpoint and Acacoy Park.. In the afternoon, the participants will proceed to Banaue for more views of the Rice Terraces, then departure for Manila.
ITINERARY
Day 01
6 a.m. Arrival at Santiago City
Travel to Mayoyao, Ifugao
Breakfast in Ubao, Aguinaldo (Ifugao)
9 a.m. Arrival in Mayoyao
10 a.m. Participation in the Igkhumtad
(participants act as judges in the different ethnic games)
12 n.n. Lunchbreak
1:30 p.m. To Abfo’or Burial Tombs
3 p.m. To Marian Center
5 p.m. Free time
6 p.m. Dinner
7 p.m. Rest or night out
Day 02
6 a.m. Early breakfast
7 a.m. Travel to O’phaw Mahencha Falls
(with I ½ hours trek)
12 n.n. Lunch/picnic at the falls
3 p.m. Travel back to Poblacion
7 P.m. Dinner
8 p.m. Cultural Show
Day 03
7 a.m. Breakfast
8 a.m. Travel to Chu;it Viewpoint
10 a.m. Travel to Acacoy Park and Nursery
11 am. Travel to Banaue
(with lunch at midway)
3 p.m. At Banaue Town Center
Travel to Banaue Viewpoint
Shopping of souvenirs
5:30 p.m. Departure of visitors
For reservation and inquiries, contact us:
THE POCHON GROUP
Poblacion, Mayoyao
3602, Ifugao
Tel Nos: +639064826300, +639214524262
E-mail: acer098@gmail.com
Lodging (Inn accommodations and homestays);
Limited accommodations for homestays
Exclusions:
Transportation to Ifugao from Manila or Baguio (and back)
Travel Insurance
Snacks
Special discounts for students in group (minimum of 5 persons)
Day 1 of the tour brings the tourists to participate in the Igkhumtad by judging in certain contested ethnic games at the Poblacion grounds. The contested events/games will be ethnic games. In the afternoon will be a visit to the Marian Center where the Hidden Madonna Falls is situated. The participants will also visit the Abfo’or Burial Tombs where, during the olden times, the bodies of brave warriors were being buried. It is an igloo-type musoleum.
On Day 2, the participants will have a picnic at the O’phaw Mahencha (leap of Mahencha) Falls, with 1 ½ hours trek.
Day 3 will be more of sightseeing at Chu’it Viewpoint and Acacoy Park.. In the afternoon, the participants will proceed to Banaue for more views of the Rice Terraces, then departure for Manila.
ITINERARY
Day 01
6 a.m. Arrival at Santiago City
Travel to Mayoyao, Ifugao
Breakfast in Ubao, Aguinaldo (Ifugao)
9 a.m. Arrival in Mayoyao
10 a.m. Participation in the Igkhumtad
(participants act as judges in the different ethnic games)
12 n.n. Lunchbreak
1:30 p.m. To Abfo’or Burial Tombs
3 p.m. To Marian Center
5 p.m. Free time
6 p.m. Dinner
7 p.m. Rest or night out
Day 02
6 a.m. Early breakfast
7 a.m. Travel to O’phaw Mahencha Falls
(with I ½ hours trek)
12 n.n. Lunch/picnic at the falls
3 p.m. Travel back to Poblacion
7 P.m. Dinner
8 p.m. Cultural Show
Day 03
7 a.m. Breakfast
8 a.m. Travel to Chu;it Viewpoint
10 a.m. Travel to Acacoy Park and Nursery
11 am. Travel to Banaue
(with lunch at midway)
3 p.m. At Banaue Town Center
Travel to Banaue Viewpoint
Shopping of souvenirs
5:30 p.m. Departure of visitors
For reservation and inquiries, contact us:
THE POCHON GROUP
Poblacion, Mayoyao
3602, Ifugao
Tel Nos: +639064826300, +639214524262
E-mail: acer098@gmail.com
Saturday, March 17, 2007
IPAD AD ALIMIT
IPAD ad Alimit(March 7-9, 2007)
The Ipad is a prestige ritual among the Ayangans (a tribe of Ifugao) performed mainly to establish and maintain family prestige and status. It may come in the form of a thanksgiving festival in a native way, where the Ayangans come together as one butchering pigs, chickens, and carabaos for the occasion. In this ritual, the childless couples can also ask for children as blessings in order to establish a prestigious family.
March 8, 2007, 9:00 A.M…. Ate Bex and I were headed to Mayoyao, Ifugao (via Banaue) on board our motorbikes on convoy. I was to accompany Ate Bex (head of the Kataguwan Center- an NGO affiliated with the Lagawe Catholic Mission being its Social Action Arm) to attend the Ipad chi E-ajangan ad Alimit (Ipad of the Ayangans in Alimit- a far flung Barangay of Mayoyao)…. Then there was the rugged dusty road which occasionally bounces us off our motorbikes covering us with dust everytime we meet other vehicles traversing the highway. Though the rocky road between Banaue and Mayoyao is practically my playground, the newly-constructed steep road from the highway to Alimit is really new to me (since it was my first time to go to the place). We were then stumbling down the steep road (not to count the heat from the scorching sun at past 12:00 high noon!). But the bruises we sustained from the stunt were brushed aside, cured by the warm welcome of the people in the barrio. We arrived just 30 minutes before lunch will be served (during occasions in Mayoyao, lunch is usually served at 2:00 P.M.) I was supposed to leave for a meeting of the Pochon group at the Poblacion in the afternoon that same day. However, I was told that the Fatong (Ipad proper) will be done at 12:00 midnight until dawn. I was in a dilemma then whether to push through with the meeting at 6:00 P.M., or to stay and witness the ritual (it was actually my first time to witness such a ritual of my tribe). So many things to consider: what’s more important, the Ipad or the meeting of the group?; there was scarce signal in the barrio (and I become restless if I didn’t text my hunny goodnight); it was my first time to witness such a ritual; that day is the first time that Mayoyao hosts such an activity; I would be missing the opportunity that I am in Mayoyao and that is the day the members of the Pochon Group are available for a meeting; and so on…one thing more is that Jeremy (our group PRO) is likewise with us in the barrio to document the said ritual being the Tourism Officer of Mayoyao. And he himself cannot attend to the meeting…. I finally made my decision: to stay and witness the Ipad and reset the meeting for another day (maybe the nextweek).
Afternoon came, there was a short introductory program where the rationale for the Ipad was explained. The different representatives of the delegates (Ifugao municipalities) were given a chance to talk and lead native dances completing their representation to the celebration. The host barrio likewise shared some of their breathtaking performances from the pupils to the women’s organization. The show was just entertaining…we forgot we were tired from the long travel! Then evening came…we were now beginning to feel the fatigue. Sleep was likewise tempting. But we still continued to be entertained by the gong-beatings and the native dances (even ate Bex beat the gong!). In between the entertainment, I managed to send some texts to my hunny taking advantage of some of the signals that the wind brings. After dinner was served, we were told to rest and that they will wake us up when the ritual starts…and so, off we went to sleep (at the Barangay RHU).
We were awakened by continuous knockings at the door of the room where we slept. It was time to start the ritual… ate Bex and I sleepily slipped out of bed and followed
the messenger to where the ritual is to take place. Luckily, I brought with me my Creative MP3/Recorder (and also I brought with me 10 spare AAA batteries), so I entered the native house along with the 4 native priests who’ll do the ritual and recorded every chants and prayers (for peace, thanksgiving, blessings, and protection). There were intervals when the native priests have to go out of the native house and dance the native dance outside and then enter the house again to resume with the ritual. The ritual took nearly 8 hours to finish. In the concluding part of the ritual, they butchered 4 pigs, one pig for each prayer (peace, thanksgiving, blessings, and protection for the Ayangan people and the host community). The ritual ended with at least 10 men clad in native attire dancing the native dance and then saying the last prayers in between. Then, there was the breakfast… 
After breakfast, Ate Bex, Ate Gemma, Ate Juliet, and I 
went to the Alimit River to bathe as the sun was already high and the temperature was so convenient for a swim. Finishing our swimming lessons, we returned to the village just in time for the concluding program. Guests who were not able to attend the introductory program were acknowledged at the concluding program. As for me a
nd Ate Bex, we have toleave at around 1:30P.M. coz we'll be heading to the Poblacion for refueling before we depart for Lagawe. The travel was a slow one (we were sleepy then so we considered our safety first since we are the ones holding our own lives. We stopped at Tulaed (Toledo City- another Barangay of Mayoyao along the highway) for a merienda then continued on with the travel. We again stopped at the Habbang Bridge (boundary between Mayoyao and Banaue) for a short picture-taking and then proceeded on once again with the travel…it was already 6:20 P.M. and the sun was beginning to set down.
We arrived in Lagawe at around 8:50: in the evening, tired once again from the travel…we badly needed whole body massage (unluckily for me, my masseuse was not within the vicinity and that I still have to travel 8 hours maximum to get to her J). Either way, with or without body massage, I crept on to my mobile bed and slept the remaining hours away.
Waking up to a beautiful morning sunshine, I was still reeling from the adventure just 2 days ago. The experience was worth the sacrifice in going to the place, enduring the scorching heat of the sun, bruising some limbs from stumbling down the steep newly-constructed road, and sacrificing the supposed to be meeting of the Group (the meeting was reset to March 20, 2007). Had I not accompanied ate Bex to the place; had I left for the meeting; then I would have missed such an opportunity to witness a rare ritual of the Ayangan Tribe (to which I proudly belong). I was once proud to be an Ayangan…but I’m even more proud today knowing that our tribe is a treasure-box of unique cultures defining our identity as THE AYANGANS OF IFUGAO!.
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