Duh I Dad Lumad: Happy Tribal Day Malita

Davao Occidental, a province that just split from Davao del Sur since 2013 is rich in natural and human resources. Our pride in Mindanao, the different tribes like the Bagobos, the Blaans, Manobos and Tagakaolos are housed in this beautiful young province.

The province is still being a huge part of the Diocese of Digos. The parishes of San Lorenzo Ruiz in Don Marcelino and Sto. Rosario Parish in Malita are towns of which the big communities of these lumads thrive.

The Sto. Rosario Parish celebrated their “Duh I Dad”, a festive tribal day celebration on a day where they gathered all the tribal groups in one place, in one prayer and in one celebration that traces their origin. The happy Lumads came, some in their own ethnic attire and the rest in their casual wear when they intermingle in the society. October was indeed a month to honor them.

The day started with a celebration of the Holy Eucharist. The parish priest, Rev. Fr. Kim Cossid, DCD celebrated the mass at 8 AM along with Rev. Fr. Richard Laquinon, his assistant. After the mass, Fr. Kim welcomed all the guests and that officially opened the day of the Lumads.

Following the mass was a festive parade of the guests from the parish to Malita Central Elementary School where the main events took place. They convened at the school’s covered court.

Once they were settled in the gymnasium and were being served with refreshments, a simple program was observed. They started the activity by saying a prayer in different tongues. A leader from each tribe gathered upfront in a circle to say their prayers and rituals. It was announced that while these prayers are being said, taking photos are not allowed and everyone was enjoined to stand still and refrain from walking in and about to show respect because to them, the very ground that they were standing was considered sacred where all forms of beautiful chanting was heard.

After the rituals, a symposium was held which was the Reading of How the Diocesan Tribal Missions came to be. Miss Elsa Albaracin took the stage. Later, it was followed by an insightful message from Fr. Kim Cossid. He talked about the CBCP IP Theme: “Lumadnong Pagka Pangulo, Gasa ug Tahas Gikan sa Ginoo.” Fr. Kim at some point, reminded them that they are our heroes in the past being the early settlers whose forefathers fought bravely to secure our lands. Their leadership plays a vital role of where we are at present.

Following the message of Fr. Cossid was another inspiring messages from NCIP (National Commission on Indigenous People) Davao del Sur Chapter, Mr. Arnold San. Sir Arnold delivered a talk that was highlighted by acknowledging the presence of our dear ethnic brothers, their important role in the society and the role of the community to have them feel that they belong. To the Lumads, he addressed them by encouraging them to preserve their cultures and to know and exercise their rights as members of the community. He also called on them to encourage and help each other. To accept and embrace their culture wherever fate takes them. To some successful/professional Lumads present in the hall, he congratulated them for having made their way into the society where education has taken them. This was a very good motivation for the young to aspire more by going to school and perform their best to earn respect not for themselves but also for their tribe in the future. Education is a right and a privilege they should not waste. It also inspired the parents to work hard to provide for their kids who are at school.

A short program followed when the different tribal dances, songs and games were showcased. The day was truly all for them. To show to the world what they have and the world showed back their respect by applauding to every single presentation they have witnessed. It was a day that unites them as Christians. They were very grateful to the diocese for not leaving them in this digital advancement. They still get a chance to show who they are. Congratulations to the Diocese of Digos and most especially to Sto. Rosario Parish for initiating this event every single year. (Blaze Q. Cantaros | SUGID SoCCom) (Note: the writer is a proud Bagoba)