Bauko Invites All: 20th Begnas Di Bauko Festival opens March 12

Bauko, Mountain Province — The streets of Bauko, Mountain Province, will come alive once again as the town celebrates its 20th Begnas Di Bauko Festival, with a grand kick-off slated for March 12, 2026.

With this year’s theme, “Bounty and Resiliency: Weaving Unity for Inclusive Prosperity,” the annual celebration honors the indigenous thanksgiving ritual deeply rooted in the community’s culture and traditions. Begnas means “thanksgiving” in the Kankanaey language.

During the celebration, residents honor their supreme being, Kabunyan, and express gratitude for a bountiful harvest, good health, and protection.

Preparations for the grand event began early this February, with various activities designed to engage the community. Based on the calendar of activities released by the Bauko Tourism Office, the launch of Begnas Di Bauko — which kicked off the pre-festival events — was held on February 3.

Activities such as the search for the best barangay Materials Recovery Facility, PSA mobile outlet services, annual health checkups, “Binnadang” for Paradise Falls, Abatan’s 51st Foundation Day, Rescuelympics, Watwat Fest, bloodletting, and other events are scheduled from February 6 to 27.

On March 5, the celebration will officially begin with the unveiling of the Mount Polis historical signage, followed by the Kamowan Festival from March 6 to 8. March 10 will feature the International Women’s Month parade, the launch of the Agri Trade Fair, and the opening of encounters.

The sacred Begnas ritual will be held on March 11, leading to the grand opening on March 12 in Barangay Poblacion, featuring a civic parade, tricycle float competition, cultural dance contests, ballbarangay, zumbabarangay, and the Mr. and Ms. Bauko pre-pageant.

Meanwhile, March 13 will highlight youth and school performances, including street dancing, cheer dance, dancecise, folk dance competitions, and the Battle of the Bands.

The closing day on March 14 will include the Begnas Run, inter-agency chorale contest, cookfest competition, and the crowning of Mr. and Ms. Bauko.

The local government unit of Bauko, headed by Mayor Randolf T. Awisan, invites the public to witness and take part in the festival to experience the warmth of the community and discover the town’s rich cultural heritage.