Pinukpuk, Kalinga launches First-Ever Gimpong Festival amid challenges, unites 23 barangays in grand opening

Taga, Pinukpuk – Despite several last-minute changes in scheduled activities, the Municipality of Pinukpuk successfully kicked off its first-ever Gimpong Festival on May 8 at the Municipal Gymnasium in Taga, Pinukpuk, bringing together residents, local officials, and visitors alike.

The inaugural festival highlighted the community’s resilience and commitment to preserving the identity and customs embodied by “Gimpong”—an iKalinga term referring to a native or Kalinga-born individual who knows and practices the traditions of the province.

The festival is a month-long celebration and is considered one of the biggest events in the municipality. However, several activities were postponed or canceled after the DILG-Kalinga announced strict conservation measures due to the energy crisis caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

One of the officially canceled events was the Pinukpuk Got Talent 2026. The auditions were originally scheduled from April 30 to May 1 at the SB Hall in Taga, but the activity was eventually called off and did not push through.

Meanwhile, the rest of the activities were postponed. Despite the changes, the festival still proceeded with its kick-off ceremony, which began with a grand parade featuring the municipality’s 23 barangays, followed by the formal opening program at the Municipal Gymnasium.

The festival was formally opened by Mayor Jimmy Dasayon, who emphasized the importance of preserving the municipality’s cultural identity and traditions. He described the event as more than just a festivity, but a symbol of unity, pride, and collective heritage among the people of Pinukpuk.

“This is not merely an event added to our calendar, but the beginning of a meaningful tradition—one that carries the heartbeat of our culture, the pride of our identity, and the collective spirit of our people. The Gimpong Festival is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together with a shared vision. It is a celebration rooted in our rich heritage, inspired by tradition, and strengthened by the unity of our community,” Dasayon said.

Pinukpuk is considered the largest municipality in Kalinga Province in terms of land area, covering about 743.56 square kilometers, while Tabuk City comes second with around 700.25 square kilometers. In this connection, the Gimpong Festival serves as an opportunity to unite the municipality’s many barangays and communities in promoting culture, tradition, and solidarity among its people.

The remaining upcoming activities include the Search for GAMMELAYAN di PINUKPUK 2026. The pre-pageant is scheduled on May 19, while the grand coronation night will be held on May 24.