Cordillera Festival displays diverse traditions in Baguio city
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On October 17, performers from six provinces and two cities in the Cordillera region of the Philippines gathered in Baguio City for the 5th Cordillera Festival of Festivals.
More than 500 people presented dances, music, and objects representing their unique cultures and histories on Session Road. Each group showcased traditions tied to thanksgiving, ancestry, agriculture, and community life. Abra with bamboo crafts, Apayao with shared celebrations, and Ifugao with rituals connected to abundance.
Mayor Benjamin Magalong noted the festival highlighted the diversity within the region, even among long-time neighbors. Department of Tourism officials emphasized the festival was intended to express cultural identity and living stories, not just provide entertainment for visitors. They stressed the importance of tourism benefiting local communities without exploiting their traditions or harming the environment. Representative Mauricio Domogan stated that sustaining this heritage requires ongoing effort beyond the festival itself.
The event aimed to show that diverse identities do not require uniformity, and celebrated the unique traditions of each community. In 2027, Kalinga province will host the festival for the first time, continuing its tradition of traveling through the Cordillera region.
