The Emblazonment of Cultural life and Tradition in the Locality of Magsaysay Davao del Sur

September 28, 2021

By Frank Vincent Salvador

Festivals or town fiestas in the Philippines commemorate historical events that define identity, quality, and place. It is the celebration of the arts and culture, its purpose is to make people converged. It is a part of the Filipino culture with a banquet for kin and friends. Moreover, festivals are one of the reasons ehy local tourism is growing and culture were shared.

In connection, here in the community of Magsaysay one of the major festivals here is the Kialegnon festival. This is a week long celebration of thanksgiving for an abundant harvest and showcase the prosperousness of our culture and tradition. The festival was held every 28th day of September here in Magsaysay, Davao del Sur, this is to give tribute to Datu Kialeg who was a legendary B'laan leader who sacrificed his life in defending his people and tribe.

The Local Government Unit in Magsaysay has prepared momentously for the week long celebration from  September 23 to 28. They prepared various traditional activities that people can participate, have fun, gain prices and especially build social cohesion. Some activities that was prepared by the LGU were the Kadang race, Lumbang Kialegnon and Indak indak sa kadalanan. 

Here are some the accentuated activities happened during the celebration:

Kadang Race

It is a Filipino traditional race game, this race uses two pieces of bamboo stilts and has stepladder on it. People were exultant upon participating the said activity and they basically prepared for it.

Lumbang Kialegnon

This activity is to challenge the participants and test their perseverance, stamina and strength. They were apparently struggling but somehow they successfully finished the games.

Indak Indak sa Kadalanan

This is a street dance and highlight of the celebration during the Kialegnon festival. This is to give honor of the different tribes here in Magsaysay including B'laan and Bagobo. They were joyously performing in spite of the dreadful heat of the Sun.