‘...neither the Prov’l Officials nor the Adivay Organizing Committee would, in any way, prevent any performer or participant from showcasing their presentation’ - Benguet PLGU on Adivay issue

Benguet, Philippines – Provincial Governor Melchor Diclas released an official statement following the issues circulating on social media regarding one cultural dance group set to perform a Kalinga cultural dance that was stopped from performing in the Adivay Festival grand parade on November 23, sparking concerns from parents and community members who questioned the fairness and adherence to protocol of the decision.

In a circulating anonymous post from the ‘Arteks of Lakandula’ page, a parent, whose identity was hidden as requested, expressed disappointments about the inclusivity and respect for cross-cultural representation in the province’s signature festival, calling out both the Benguet Governor and Cogressman Eric Yap.

The post claimed that the students who had spent their own time and money preparing for the event were reportedly stopped just as they were about to perform at the Benguet Sports Complex, adding that their transportation, costumes, and other expenses were shouldered by the students and their families.

To address the matter, Diclas, as cited via his official Facebook page, that no performer was stopped from the parade and that the snacks were given only to confirmed participants.

“We wish to assure the public that neither the Provincial Officials nor the Adivay Organizing Committee would, in any way, prevent any performer or participant from showcasing their presentation during the parade. On concerns related to the distribution of food or snacks, we further clarify that only groups and performers who were officially coordinated and confirmed as parade performers were allotted snacks, as part of the standard logistics arrangements for the event,” the post stated.

Meantime, parents and concerned individuals who have seen the post, criticized the move, saying it contradicts the meaning of Adivay— an Ibalaoi word that means 'coming together,’ to which Diclas also added that the provincial government will take full responsibility.

“We humbly acknowledge that any inconvenience experienced during the festivities should be blamed on the organizing body, which is the Provincial Government, under the leadership of Governor Melchor Diclas. We sincerely apologize and take full responsibility,” concluded the statement.