Pfoto' ad Majawjaw Festival 2009

Friends,

Pochon Group once again invites you to join the Pfoto’ ad Majawjaw (Rice Harvest in Mayoyao) Festival 2009 to be held this July 3-5, 2009 at Mayoyao, Ifugao (Cordillera). This festival is organized by the Pochon and Maanichar Centennial Batch Assoc., Inc (www.pochon-maanichar.org) in coordination with the Barangay Local Government Units concerned, the Mayoyao Tourguides and Indigenous Knowledge Holders Allied Organization (MATIKHAO), the Akha’khaemeh Cultural Performing Group, and the Barangay Banhal Community.

For this particular tour, participants get to choose which activity suits their interest: Package A offers the extreme experience of rappelling by the waterfalls. Also offered is the exploring experience of riverwalking upstream towards the waterfalls. Swimming and snorkelling is another option in Package A; Package B on the other hand gives the participants the chance to take a look inside the Mayoyao Museum, refresh and relax themselves at the Akakoy Nature Park and Viewpoint, and get to learn how the Mayoyao Native houses were constructed through the demo to be conducted by the Indigenous Knowledge Holders and Scholars.

Another highlight of the tour is the cultural presentation where the different Native and War dances will be showcased.

It is the advocacy of the Pochon group to help maintain and preserve the richness of the cultural heritage of this town to allow the generations to come to appreciate the cultural practices of the ancestors who tried their best to hand the rich culture to the present generation for the next to learn about it. A portion of the tour’s proceeds will go to the heritage trust fund that will be used to help promote the indigenous culture of the Mayoyao people to its young generation and people who wish to have an extraordinary experience in the beautiful town where unexplored nature still abound.

Please help save the Ifugao Rice Terraces. Join the Pfoto’ ad Majawjaw 2009!

Thank you very much.

Truly yours,

JOAN SHEELAH “JOSH” O. NALLIW

Pochon Group President

e-mail: josh21020@gmail.com

mobile #: +639064826300

PFOTO’ AD MAJAWJAW FESTIVAL 2009

(RICE HARVEST FESTIVAL)

July 3-5, 2009

Mayoyao, Ifugao

Inclusions:

Transportation within the Province

Guide Fee

Environmental Fee

Meals (breakfast on the day of arrival to lunch on the day of departure)

Lodging

Cultural Presentation

Exclusions:

Transportation from Manila to Santiago City and back

Travel Insurance

Snacks and beverages

Add:

PhP970.00 bus fare Manila-Santiago City and Banaue-Manila

ITINERARY

PACKAGE A

(Package Cost: P4,900.00/pax)

3 Days, 2 Nights

DAY 0 (JULY 2, 2009) THURSDAY

9 P.M. - ETD, Manila (Florida Bus, Sampaloc Station)

DAY 1 (JULY 3, 2009) FRIDAY

6 A.M. - ETA, Santiago City (Isabela/Region II)

- Departure for Mayoyao, Ifugao

- Breakfast at Ubao, Aguinaldo (Ifugao)

10 A.M. - ETA, Mayoyao, Ifugao

- Room assignments (Milcah Lodge)

- Rest

1130 A.M. - Orientation

12 N.N. - Lunch

1 P.M. - Trek/riverwalk to Pohong Ilat Falls

- Rappelling/Swimming at the Falls

4 P.M. - Trek Back to Poblacion

5 P.M. - Rest/Explore Town Plaza

7 P.M. - Dinner

- Rest

DAY 2 (JULY 4, 2009) SATURDAY

7 A.M. - Breakfast

8 A.M. - Proceed to Harvest Site

- Join the harvest

12 N.N. - Lunch with the community

1 P.M. - Trek down Mayoyao Proper Rice Terraces

- Visit to Apfo’or Burial Tombs

- Visit to Ecopark

430 P.M. - Back to Poblacion

- Rest/Exploring Town Plaza

7 P.M. - Dinner

8 P.M. - Cultural Presentation

- Rest

DAY 3 (JULY 5, 2009) SUNDAY

7 A.M. - Breakfast

8 A.M. - Visit to Chu’it Viewpoint

10 A.M. - Travel to Banaue, Ifugao

12 N.N. - Lunch at Midway

3 P.M. - ETA, Banaue, Ifugao

- Visit to Banaue Viewpoint

- Souvenir shopping

7 P.M. - Departure for Manila (Florida Bus)

DAY 4 (JULY 6, 2009) MONDAY

3 A.M. - ETA, Manila (Florida Bus Sampaloc Station)

PACKAGE B

(Package Cost: P4,800.00/pax)

3 Days, 2 Nights

DAY 0 (JULY 2, 2009) THURSDAY

9 P.M. - ETD, Manila (Florida Bus, Sampaloc Station)

DAY 1 (JULY 3, 2009) FRIDAY

6 A.M. - ETA, Santiago City (Isabela/Region II)

- Departure for Mayoyao, Ifugao

- Breakfast at Ubao, Aguinaldo (Ifugao)

10 A.M. - ETA, Mayoyao, Ifugao

- Room assignments (Milcah Lodge)

- Rest

1130 A.M. - Orientation

12 N.N. - Lunch

1 P.M. - Visit to Mayoyao Museum

- Visit to Akakoy Nature Park and Viewpoint

- Demo on Native House Construction

4 P.M. - Trek Back to Poblacion

5 P.M. - Rest/Explore Town Plaza

7 P.M. - Dinner

- Rest

DAY 2 (JULY 4, 2009) SATURDAY

7 A.M. - Breakfast

8 A.M. - Proceed to Harvest Site

- Join the harvest

12 N.N. - Lunch with the community

1 P.M. - Trek down Mayoyao Proper Rice Terraces

- Visit to Apfo’or Burial Tombs

- Visit to Ecopark

430 P.M. - Back to Poblacion

- Rest/Exploring Town Plaza

7 P.M. - Dinner

8 P.M. - Cultural Presentation

- Rest

DAY 3 (JULY 5, 2009) SUNDAY

7 A.M. - Breakfast

8 A.M. - Visit to Chu’it Viewpoint

10 A.M. - Travel to Banaue, Ifugao

12 N.N. - Lunch at Midway

3 P.M. - ETA, Banaue, Ifugao

- Visit to Banaue Viewpoint

- Souvenir shopping

7 P.M. - Departure for Manila (Florida Bus)

DAY 4 (JULY 6, 2009) MONDAY

3 A.M. - ETA, Manila (Florida Bus Sampaloc Station)

FOR INQUIRIES AND RESERVATIONS, please contact:

JOSH NALLIW - josh21020@gmail.com

- +639064826300

JEREMY GAWONGNA - jemgaw@gmail.com

- +639067162854

DEADLINE OF RESERVATIONS AND PAYMENT: June 30, 2009

· Reservation procedure:

· Fill-up the registration/confirmation form and send it to us. Submission of registration/confirmation form does not assure you of slot. Only after full payment is the slot reserved for you.

• Payment procedure:

· Upon submission of filled-up registration/confirmation form, we will advise you if slot is available and give you the payment procedure.

· Slots are on a first come first served basis, so please reserve and pay earlier to be assured of your slot.

· Payment refund policy:

· If client cancels reservation,

· 14-8 days before departure less 50% of total cost
7-5 days before departure less 75% of total cost
4-0 days before departure less 100% or NO REFUND

· Full refund if POCHON cancels tour due to unavoidable circumstances. Guaranteed departure, minimum of 20 tour participants.

What to bring:

- Trekking shoes

- Jacket/blanket/malong

- Drinking water/mineral water

- Trail food

- Cameras

- Towels and toiletries

- Rain gears

- Please bring clothes and gears suitable for cold weather and trekking (For the harvest, shorts/loose pants, long sleeves, and hat/cap are useful)

- Bring swimming gears for swimming in the waterfalls

- Flashlights will be helpful

- For those with medical problems, please bring your medication and advise your guide of your medical condition

ACTIVITIES:

Mayoyao is located at the eastern portion of Ifugao approximately 41 kilometers from Banaue; 371 kilometers east of Baguio City and 536 kilometers northeast of Metro Manila. Travel to Mayoyao is a three to four hours ride, be it from Banaue or from Santiago City (Isabela) along a road which dips and climbs hundred of meters among picturesque terraced hills, forests, and villages. The views of the rice terraces in Mayoyao are awesome; the municipality sits on top of the rice terraces! The native houses, with roofs shaped like the pyramids of Gaza, are strategically placed within the rice terraces. No nails or glue were used but the typical native house can withstand even the strongest of typhoons.

Day 1 - Participants will be met at Santiago City, Florida Bus Terminal. A Van/Bus will be waiting to transport participants to Mayoyao, Ifugao passing by Alfonso Lista and Aguinaldo, both Ifugao towns. Breakfast will be had along the way. Travel will take 3-4 hours to reach Mayoyao. Upon reaching Mayoyao, participants will be allowed to rest and then have lunch.

After lunch, Package A participants will proceed to Pohong Ilat, located 20 minutes away from the Poblacion. Our ancestors say that the river was struck by lightning and formed a basin-like pool. “Pohong” stands for waterpool while “Ilat” means lightning. Those who want to experience rappelling at the falls will be taking a different route while those who want to take a dip in the natural pool will have their riverwalk experience going upstream to where the falls is.

As for participants of Package B, their itinerary starts by visiting the Mayoyao Museum, where some native tools, collected through the effort of the Municipal Local Government Unit, are being displayed. After visiting the Museum, the participants will proceed to Akakoy Nature Park and Viewpoint, where one can view the Chaya Rice Terraces, the coldest part of the Upper region of Central Mayoyao. From there, a demo on native house construction will be performed to better understand the structure of the Mayoyao Native House and the culture which go along with its construction process.

Day 2 – For Both Packages, the participants will proceed to experience harvesting rice with the Mayoyao Community. They can choose their participation in the harvest: the Munbfoto’ (the one who reaps the rice palay), Mun-akun (the one who collects the reaped palay), Munbfa-ud (ties the palay into bundles), Munkhongah (trims the bundle stalks to make the rice bundle look neat), Munkhu-ud (properly arranges the neatly bundled rice palay into the rice granary), and Munhaang (the cook). After the lunch with the community, participants will trek down the Mayoyao Proper Rice Terraces, passing by the Apfo’or Burial Tombs (igloo-type stone musoleums containing the bodies of the town’s ancient warriors and elite), ending the trek at the Ecopark, a miniforest where a collection of the different kinds of trees can be found. In the evening will be a cultural show where the following will be showcased:

- Ngajaw (Victory dance)

- Hang-hangngit (Friendly bantering between males and females)

- Tajaw (Native dances)

- Community native dancing with participants

Day 3 - For Both Packages, participants will visit Chu’it Viewpoint, a vantage point where one can see the entirety of the rice terraces cluster of Central Mayoyao, lower region. Afterwards, participants will proceed to Banaue for more rice terraces viewing and souvenir shopping. Lunch will be had midway. Departure of participants will be at around 8 P.M., Florida Bus, Deluxe.

Mt. Amuyao Climb 2009

MT. AMUYAO PACKAGED CLIMB
Mayoyao. Ifugao
April 9-12, 2009

ITINERARY

PACKAGE A
Package Cost: Php6,200.00 per pax
(4 days, 3 nights)

Inclusions:
Transportation within the Province
Guide Fee
Environmental Fee
Meals (breakfast on the day of arrival to lunch on the day of departure)
Lodging
Cultural Presentation

Exclusions:
Transportation from Manila to Santiago City and back
Travel Insurance
Snacks and beverages

Add:
PhP900.00 bus fare Manila-Santiago City and Banaue-Manila
PhP500.00 (optional) Porter fee

DAY 0 (April 8, 2009) – WEDNESDAY
9 P.M. Departure from Manila (Victory Liner, Kamias/Kamuning Bus Station)

DAY 1 (April 9, 2009) - THURSDAY
5 A.M. ETA, Santiago City (Isabela)
Breakfast
6 A.M. Travel to Mayoyao via Alfonso Lista and Aguinaldo (Ifugao)
10 A.M ETA, Mayoyao
12 N.N Lunch
Rest
2 P.M. Start trek to Magulon Base camp
6 P.M. ETA, Magulon
Set up camp
7 P.M. Dinner

DAY 2 (April 10, 2009) - FRIDAY
5 A.M. Early Breakfast
6 A.M. Start trek to Amuyao summit
Packed lunch (eat where you are)
2 P.M. At the summit
Set up camp
7 P.M. Dinner

DAY 3 (April 11, 2009) - SATURDAY
6 A.M Breakfast
8 A.M. Start descend
2 P.M. ETA, Magulon base camp
Late lunch 3 P.M.
Start trek back to the Poblacion
7 P.M. ETA, Poblacion (Lodge)
Rest, freshen up
8 P.M. Dinner
Cultural Presentations
10 P.M. Rest

DAY 4 (April 12, 2009) - SUNDAY
7 A.M. Breakfast
Pack up
8 A.M. Visit to Chu’it Viewpoint
Visit to Acacoy Nature Park
Visit to Abfo’or Burial tomb
11 A.M. Travel to banaue
12 N.N. Lunch at Midway
3 P.M. ETA, Banaue
Shopping for souvenirs
6 P.M. Departure for Manila (Autobus)
8 P.M. Departure for Manila (Florida Bus)

DAY 5 (April 13, 2009) – MONDAY
3 A.M. ETA, Manila

Note: Trekking time has been adjusted to the maximum

PACKAGE B
Package Cost: PhP5,100.00 per pax
(4 days, 3 nights)

Inclusions:
Transportation within the Province
Guide Fee
Environmental Fee
Meals (breakfast on the day of arrival to lunch on the day of departure)
Lodging
Cultural Presentation

Exclusions:
Transportation from Manila to Santiago City and back Travel Insurance
Snacks and beverages

Add:
PhP900.00 bus fare Manila-Santiago City and Banaue-Manila
PhP500.00 (optional) Porter fee

DAY 0 (April 8, 2009) – WEDNESDAY
9 P.M. Departure from Manila (Victory Liner, Kamias/Kamuning Bus Station)

DAY 1 (April 9, 2009) - THURSDAY
5 A.M. ETA, Santiago City (Isabela)
Breakfast
6 A.M. Travel to Mayoyao via Alfonso Lista and Aguinaldo (Ifugao)
10 A.M ETA, Mayoyao
12 N.N Lunch
Rest
2 P.M. Start trek to Magulon Base camp
6 P.M. ETA, Magulon
Set up camp
7 P.M. Dinner

DAY 2 (April 10, 2009) – FRIDAY
7 A.M. Breakfast
8 A.M. Trek to Muntuy-tuy-ub Waterfalls
12 N.N Picnic lunch
3 P.M. Trek back to base camp
7 P.M. Dinner Rest

DAY 3 (April 11, 2009) – SATURDAY
7 A.M. Breakfast
9 A.M. Trek to Patyay Rice Terraces cluster
12 N.N. Lunch in Patyay
2 P.M. Trek back to Base camp
3 P.M. Trek back to Poblacion together with the summiteers
7 P.M. ETA, Poblacion (Lodge)
Rest, freshen up
8 P.M. Dinner
Cultural Presentations
10 P.M. Rest

DAY 4 (April 12, 2009) - SUNDAY
7 A.M. Breakfast
Pack up
8 A.M. Visit to Chu’it Viewpoint Visit to
Acacoy Nature Park
Visit to Abfo’or Burial tomb
11 A.M. Travel to banaue
12 N.N. Lunch at Midway
3 P.M. ETA, Banaue
Shopping for souvenirs
6 P.M. Departure for Manila (Autobus)
8 P.M. Departure for Manila (Florida Bus)

DAY 5 (April 13, 2009) – MONDAY
3 A.M. ETA, Manila

Note: Trekking time has been adjusted to the maximum

FOR INQUIRIES AND RESERVATIONS, please contact:

JOSH NALLIW - josh21020@gmail.com -
- +639064826300

JEREMY GAWONGNA - jemgaw@gmail.com
- +639067162854

DEADLINE OF RESERVATIONS AND PAYMENT: April 2, 2009

* We will advise you on payment procedure upon confirmation of your participation. Please fill up the registration/confirmation form.
* Slots are on a first-come first-served basis so please confirm and pay earlier to be assured of your slot

BACKGROUND

Rising at the northeastern edge of the Cordilleras is the highest point of Mountain Province, Mt. Amuyao. Unlike the famed mountains of the range such as Mt. Pulag and Mt. Napulauan which can only be viewed on high elevations, Mt. Amuyao stands prominently and can be spotted along the highway to Banaue. Because of its prime location, it was chosen to be the site of two transmitters, that of the PT&T and ABS-CBN. Mt. Amuyao is the country’s 10th highest mountain and an important physical and cultural landmark in Mountain Province. Together with a traverse of Mt. Ugo and Mt. Napulauan, a traverse of Mt. Amuyao is one of the great hiking trails of the Cordilleras. Of the three, it is considered the most challenging.

At the summit, a display of wild flora will greet you: there are pink flowers, highland grass, wild orchids, and other rarities. The scenery is breathtaking, encompassing the high mountains of the Cordilleras to the west, and the Sierra Madre to the east. Visible are the provinces of Benguet (W), Abra (WNW), Kalinga (N), Cagayan (NE), Isabela (E), and Ifugao (S). Both sunsets and sunrises have a magnificent character; more so the sea of clouds. Aside from the beautiful view its peak affords, Mt. Amuyao is also special for other reasons. In Ifugao (Italics and name supplied) folklore, diluveal legends say that it is in this high mountain where the surviving man and woman, Bugan and Wigan, took refuge. This legend is very much like the Biblical tale of Noah, whose ark landed in Mt. Ararat. Hence, the mountain has a special place among the locals. Also, its bioversity has earned the notice of scientists. Salcedo and Calora of the Benguet State University (2006) reports that “A total of 280 vascular plant species belonging to 180 genera and 84 families were recorded from actual floristic surveys and vegetation analysis of the northern slope of Mt. Amuyao.” They were further able to caterogize the mountain into zones: a tropical moist forest (1600-1800 MASL), tropical premontane wet forest (1801-2400 MASL) and tropical montane rainforest (2400-2702 MASL). The same report warns, however, of a bad prognosis regarding the denudation of the forest; hikers must be aware of these environment concerns and lend their hand whenever possible to avert them (article from PinoyMountaineer).

THE TRAVERSE TRAIL
Entry point - Poblacion, Mayoyao
Jump-off point - Bulhe, Mayoyao
Bulhe to Magulon base camp: 3 to 4 hours downhill then uphill (slowly descending/ascending) - Set up camp at Magulon, Mayoyao
Magulon to summit: 6 to 7 hours with rest periods in between all uphill (steep)
- Overnight at summit
Summit to Magulon: 5 to 6 hours downhill (steep)
Magulon to Bulhe: 4 to 5 hours downhill then uphill (slowly descending/ascending)

ACTIVITIES

Day1 - Participants will be met at Santiago City, Victory Liner Bus Terminal. A Van/Bus will be waiting to transport participants to Mayoyao, Ifugao passing by Alfonso Lista and Aguinaldo, both Ifugao towns. Breakfast will be had along the way. Travel will take 3-4 hours to reach Mayoyao. Upon reaching Mayoyao, participants will be allowed to rest and then have lunch. After lunch, trek starts going to the base camp at Magulon, Mayoyao. Overnight at base camp.

Day 2 - Participants for Package A will start trekking up to the summit as early as 5 A.M. so as to be able to reach the summit at 2 P.M. giving much time for the participants to rest and take as many pictures as they can and in order to simmer the moment at the summit while overlooking a sea of clouds. Trek from Magulon base camp to the summit takes 6-7 hours with rest periods in between, adding 1 hour for lunch to make the assault run to 8 hours. Lunch will be packed so the participants can eat where they are. The trail will be steep uphill. Trail might even be slippery in some portions. Overnight stay at the summit. It will be very cold so be sure to bring thick jacket or thin blanket. Tents may also be set up. The summit offers a planetarium at night when there are no clouds. In the morning will be a thick sea of clouds where one can take as many pictures of the sunrise. Sometimes, it rains especially in the evening. But it will not be that hard.

- As for participants of Package B, they will take time waking up in the morning and having breakfast. Itinerary will be a picnic at Muntuy-tuy-ub waterfalls. Participants can take their time exploring the beautiful Magulon terraces cluster.

Day 3 - Participants for Package A will eat early breakfast and start the descend around 9 A.M. Descend will be more knee-breaking as they will trek the steep downhill trail. Lunch will be had at Barangay Patyay, Mayoyao. The place also offers a beautiful view of the Patyay terraces cluster. From Patyay, participants will proceed to base camp at Magulon and get ready for trek back to the Poblacion. From Magulon to Bulhe will take another 4-5 hours.

- Participants for Package B will visit Patyay, Mayoyao terraces cluster for more exploration and picture-taking. Trek takes 1-2 hours. Lunch will be a Patyay. After lunch, participants trek back to base camp at Magulon and wait for the summiteers to arrive. All participants will start trek back to Bulhe at 3 P.M.

- For both packages, Ride will be waiting at Bulhe to take the participants to Poblacion where they will be billeted at a lodge at the town center. In the evening will be a cultural show where the following will be showcased:
- Ngajaw (Victory dance)
- Hang-hangngit (Friendly bantering between males and females)
- Tajaw (Native dances)
- Community native dancing with participants

Day 4 - Participants will visit Chu’it Viewpoint, a vantage point where one can see the entirety of the rice terraces cluster of Central Mayoyao, lower region. Afterwards, participants will proceed to Akakoy Nature Park for a view of the Upper region of Central Mayoyao rice terraces cluster. The participants will be given a chance take a look inside one of the Abfo’or Burial tombs. Participants will leave Central Mayoyao at 11 A.M. for Banaue. Lunch will be had midway. Shopping for more souvenirs can be done at the Banaue Town Center or at the Banaue Viewpoint.

What to bring:
- Trekking shoes
- Jacket/blanket
- Drinking water
- Trail food
- Cameras
- Towels and toiletries
- Please bring clothes and gears suitable for cold weather and trekking

RICE PLANTING TOUR (February 6-8)

PFUKHAY AD MAJAWJAW 2009 TOUR PACKAGE
February 6-8, 2009
Mayoyao, Ifugao

Package Cost: Php4,100.00

Inclusions:
Transportation within the Province
Tour Guide Fee
Cultural Night
Meals (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners, 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 visit to the Mayoyao Museum and to the Acacoy Nature Park, where one can view the Chaya Rice Terraces, the coldest point in Central Mayoyao. This part of Mayoyao produces the freshest Water Crest in the municipality. It is also 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. The venue will be at Barangay Mapawoy. 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 Akha'khaemeh Cultural Performing Group and the High School students. The Ngajaw (Victory Dance), tajaw (native dances), Hang-hangnget (friendly bantering between males and females), 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 0 (February 5, 2009)
9:30 p.m. - Departure from Manila, via Victory Liner Bus, Kamias/Kamuning Station

Day 1 (February 6, 2009)
6 a.m. - ETA, Santiago City
+ Travel to Mayoyao, Ifugao
7:30 a.m - Breakfast at Ubao, Aguinaldo, Ifugao
11 a.m. - Arrival in Mayoyao
- Room Assignments
- Rest
12 n.n - Lunch
1 p.m. - Orientation
1:30 p.m. - Visit to the Mayoyao Museum
3-5 p.m. - Visit to Acacoy Nature Park
5-6 p.m - Free time
7 p.m. - Dinner
8-10 p.m. - Demo on native house construction
- Rest

Day 2 (February 7, 2009)
7 a.m. - Breakfast
8 a.m. - Trek to planting site
+ Participation in the Pfukhay'
+ 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 p.m. - Showcasing of Cultural Presentations:
* Ethnic Ensemble by the High School Students
* Ngajaw (victory dance)
* Hang-hangngit (friendly bantering between males and females)
* Tajaw: Lower and upper Bahelna, Henanga (Native dance)
* Community native dancing with participants
10 p.m. - Rest

Day 3 (February 8, 2009)
7 a.m. - Breakfast
+ Pack-up
8:30 a.m. - Visit to Chu'it Viewpoint
10 a.m. - Travel to Banaue with lunch at midway
3 p.m. - ETA, Banaue
+ Visit to Banaue Viewpoint
+ Shopping for souvenirs
5-6 p.m. - Departure for Manila via Autobus or Florida Bus

February 9, 2009
3 a.m. - ETA, Autobus Station or Florida Bus Station, Sampaloc Manila



For reservation and inquiries, contact us:
Pochon Group
Poblacion, Mayoyao
3602 Ifugao

Mobile: +639064826300 (Josh Nalliw) , +639067162854 (Jeremy Gawongna)
E-mail: jemgaw@gmail.com, josh21020@gmail.com

Reserve now and experience the fun!

Mayoyao Assumption Academy Grand Alumni Homecoming 2008

Mayoyao Assumption Academy 1st Grand Alumni Homecoming 2008 is set on December 27, 2008 at the Assumption Academy Grounds. This activity is an initiative of the Pochon and Maanichar Centennial Batch Assoc. (Batch 1998) in coordination with the Silver Jubilarians (Batch 1983) and the Golden Jubilarians (Batch 1958). Registration fee of PhP50.00 and contribution of PhP100.00 is being collected per alumnus/alumnae. You may also subscribe to the souvenir program in the following fees: Whole page,colored=PhP1,800.00 / Whole Page, black and white=PhP1,500.00 / Half Page,colored=PhP1,100.00 / Half Page,black and white=PhP800.00 / 1/4 page=PhP500.00. Please contact your respective coordinators for the fees (reg. & contri.) or contact any of your batchmates or Josh Nalliw (+639064826300). Thank You!

Pochon goes to Panibagong Paraan 2008

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/

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)

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!

For pictures of the ethnic games, please see this link:

http://josh21020.multiply.com/photos/album/34

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.