Northern Bukidnon State College (NBSC) held its Indigenous Peoples’ Month Celebration 2026 on November 11, 2026, at the NBSC Campus, with the theme, “Roots of Wisdom, Wings of Tomorrow: Empowering Indigenous Youth Through Culture and Heritage.” This was facilitated by the Culture and Arts Development Office (CADO), headed by Anthony D. Sanchez, MAED.
In her welcome message, College President Christie Jean Villanueva-Ganiera, Ed.D., CESE, reminded students that pursuing higher education does not mean leaving their culture behind. She encouraged them to take pride in their heritage, uphold their traditions, and carry the wisdom of their ancestors wherever life may lead. “Our roots reflect who we are, while our wings are our dreams and what we want to become.”
She also emphasized that every learner deserves acceptance, respect, and equal opportunities regardless of background. Recognizing the diversity within the NBSC community, Dr. Ganiera said, “Our diversity should not divide us; instead, it should make us stronger as one NBSC family.” She called on students to learn from their elders and use their education to make a difference in their lives, families, and communities.
The morning program featured a Basic Bukidnon Dialect Tutorial, or Maglalang-lalang Kuy Hu Binukid, facilitated by Rich Field M. Helario, MBM, of the Institute of Business Management (IBM). The session highlighted the importance of language in keeping cultural knowledge alive.
Another session focused on Basic IP Knowledge in Customary Law, led by Bae Judith Daisy B. Dinsag, Municipal Tribal Chieftain of the Bukidnon-Higaunon Tribe in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon. Her discussion covered the foundations of customary law under the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (IPRA) and its role in protecting indigenous rights.
Bae Dinsag also stressed the importance of learning and practicing ancestral traditions beyond identifying as indigenous only when benefits are involved. She discussed the value of mutual respect in fostering better understanding between indigenous and non-indigenous communities
An open forum followed, where participants raised questions about the proper use and borrowing of indigenous clothing and other cultural materials, as well as sources of reliable reference materials on IP culture and heritage. The exchange provided an opportunity to clarify concerns and discuss the proper appreciation and representation of indigenous traditions.
The morning session marked the first part of the celebration. The afternoon program is scheduled to begin at 3:00 p.m. with Laga Daw Malaki Ta NBSC 2026, another activity included in the day’s program.
The activity reflects NBSC’s commitment to an inclusive academic environment where indigenous students can take pride in their identity and the wider student community can develop a better understanding of the cultures represented within the institution. Through continued opportunities for cultural learning and exchange, the College helps ensure that respect for indigenous communities remains part of its educational practice.
Written by: Alliana Isa E. Vivares
Photos by: Ralph A. Bagotsay, Alliana Isa E. Vivares
