Around 500 indigenous people (IP) coming from different municipalities of the province composed of Aromanen Menuvu, Libunganen, Obo Manobo, Tagabawa, Blaan and Tinananen tribes gathered on August 26-27, 2019 at the Basket, Provincial Pavilion, Amas, Kidapawan City for a 2-day IP group celebration which is also dubbed as the Kavurunan Festival.
The term “kavurunan” is an Aromen-Menuvu term for gathering. This activity aims to promote diverse culture, traditions, and practices of different IP tribes and their role in the history of Cotabato Province.
One of the highlights during the Kavurunan Festival 2019 activity was the Search for Mutya ng Kavurunan held last night at the Provincial Pavilion wherein 14 lovely candidates belonging to different IP tribes from the province vied for the crown.
Obo Manobo Miss Precious Anne R. Corpus representing Kidapawan City was crowned as Mutya ng Kavurunan 2019. She also bagged the Best in Tribal Attire, Best in Malong Attire, Best in Production Number, and Best in Question and Answer Portion awards.
Joining Corpus in her court is Miss Denah D. Domo (Midsayap) as 1st runner-up, Miss Mae P. Doe (Tulunan) as 2nd runner-up, and Miss Aramen E. Maralit (Arakan) as 3rd runner-up.
The activity also featured tribal games and cultural competition such as traditional dance, family ensemble, solo voice/uwahing, and musical instrument playing.
During the tribal parade this morning, the different tribe delegates also showcased their different tribal costumes and dance that represent their rich culture and tradition.
Acting Vice Governor Shirlyn D. Macasarte-Villanueva and concurrent Overall In-Charge of the Kalivungan Festival congratulated and thanked the organizers, especially the tribal leaders and members of the indigenous people of Cotabato Province for sharing their time and for taking part in this year’s 105th Founding Anniversary.//ras//
