Bodong Festival represented by Tanudan wins ‘Outstanding Musical Arrangement’ Award at Cordillera Festival of Festivals

Tanudan, Kalinga – The Kalinga Bodong Festival, represented by the Municipality of Tanudan, won the “Outstanding Musical Arrangement” award at the Cordillera Festival of Festivals held in Baguio City on October 24.

The Cordillera Festival of Festivals is an annual event that brings together the major and signature celebrations of the Cordillera provinces—Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, and Mountain Province—as well as the cities of Baguio and Tabuk, showcasing the region’s vibrant cultures and unique identities.

For this year’s celebration, Kalinga’s rich culture and heritage were showcased through the Bodong Festival presentation by the Magtoma National High School dancers and community performers. Their performance featured the Torayan or Eagle Dance of Tanudan—a joyful community dance performed after victory in battle—accompanied by the traditional Dinnayan song.

Municipal Tourism Officer Aurie Mae Banson shared that the group underwent a series of rehearsals after learning of the event and Tanudan’s participation.

Meanwhile, Executive Assistant to the Mayor Jaedicke Rhoss Dagadag and Designate Information Officer John Ryan Awingan noted that the Provincial Local Government Unit (PLGU) of Kalinga, headed by Governor James Edduba, provided support for the participants’ needs. Mayor Dagadag also extended assistance by providing transportation, food, and fuel for the iTanudans who accompanied the performers.

Governor Edduba and Mayor Dagadag personally joined the delegation, cheering for the participants and dancing alongside the young iKalinga performers in a festive display of unity and pride.

Also from Kalinga Province, Tabuk City’s Matagoan Festival, performed by Barangay Bantay and highlighting the Prutas Festival, received the Cultural Ambassador Award.