Written by Milagros Salingbay Guinsad
September 28, 2024 — UB-BIMAAK (University of Baguio- Benguet, Ifugao, Mt. Province, Apayao, Abra, Kalinga), the newly reactivated Indigenous Peoples student organization of the University of Baguio successfully conducted its inaugural general assembly at the Fernando G. Bautista Hall of the University of Baguio. With the theme “KABAGIS: Knowledge, Appreciation, Belonging, Activation, Growth, Inspiration, and Solidarity of Culture and Tradition within the UB Community”, the event brought together nearly 200 IP students coming from the various programs of the university.
The event featured a ceremonial ribbon-cutting with the presence of Dr. Janice Kaylyn Lonogan, Vice President for Academic Affairs – UB; Mr. Jeofrence Yangyang, Educational Program Specialist II from CHED-CAR; and UB-BIMAAK advisers Ms. Beverly Laltoog and Ms. Wylleth Sacyaten, alongside UB-BIMAAK President Ms. Milagros Guinsad. This ceremony formalized the reactivation of the UB-IP Organization, formerly known as “BIBAK” or “Benguet, Ifugao, Bontoc, Apayao, and Kalinga” after a long hiatus, reviving its commitment to the cultural heritage of the region.
The highlight of the assembly was a Keynote Speech by the esteemed guest speaker, Mr. Jeofrence Yangyang, who passionately explained the history of the university’s IP organization and the importance of its reactivation for the conservation of Cordilleran culture and traditions. He encouraged the audience to embrace their roots as Igorots, and to take pride in their roles as cultural bearers. He emphasized, “Adi tako bukudan nan gawis, iyayag tako” (Let us not deprive others of what is good, let us invite others to it), reminding members of the importance of camaraderie and teamwork—the core values that are deeply ingrained in Cordilleran culture. He also initiated the traditional practice of “Pitik”, to which he prayed to “Kabunyan” or to God for the unity, prosperity, and success of UB-BIMAAK.
Following the keynote, Ms. Laltoog led a comprehensive general orientation, outlining the organization’s mission, vision, and goals. She shared exciting plans for upcoming initiatives, including music and dance showcases, engaging seminars, workshops, and outreach activities promoting community engagement and cultural appreciation. The assembly culminated in the election of officers presided over by Ms. Guinsad. The election was followed by the installation of officers and their oath of office which embodied their commitment to the organization.
To formally close the event, Dr. Froilan Aspa, the Director of the Office of Student Affairs, shared his support and motivation to the organization. This was followed by a lively community dance led by UBBUK (UB BIBAK Ubbun Kaafuan), with the attendees dancing to the rhythms of traditional gongs, celebrating the start of the organization in a truly memorable way.
With a promising future ahead, the assembly was more than just an event; it marked the beginning of a transformative journey dedicated to the promotion and celebration of Cordillera’s rich culture and traditions within the University of Baguio.
The success of this event would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the University of Baguio Management, the Office of Student Affairs, the UBBUK, and the dedicated advisers, officers, and committee members of UB-BIMAAK. As the speakers aptly stated, “Iyaman, kabagis!”
