By DELIA BAGNI
www.nordis.net

BAGUIO CITY — Cordillera youth cultural performers met with the elders in a cultural exchange enhancing their knowledge on the traditions and basic guidelines on ethnic dances.

Dap-ayan ti Kultura ti Kordilyera (DKK) Chairperson Matyline Camfili said that many of the Cordillera youth cultural performers of today do not know how to dance the traditional dances the proper way. She lamented that a lot of cultural dancers make fun of the Cordillera dances and treat them as just for entertainment. She added that the real essence of these traditional practices and rituals are not being presented well.

DKK spearheaded the cultural exchange program as part of its month long activities in celebration of the cultural organization’s 21st anniversary. The activity was participated in by different Cordillera youth organizations such as the Panagtignay dagiti Nakurapay nga Agtutubo para iti Tarigagay ti Umili a Demokrasya-Anakbayan (Pinatud), PAYYEW, DANUM, Tanghalang Bayan ng Kabataan sa Baguio, Salidummay, Mana-o, and members of the Bontoc, Ifugao, Benguet, Apayao and Kalinga (BIBAK).

Camfili said that the cultural exchange also aims to equip the participants’ additional knowledge and skills of performing.

Composer Mauricio Patungao said the youth should be aware of the social realities of today and present it through the arts. He shared that music can be a way of struggle for the eradication of social illnesses such as corruption among others. He said it can also be used for healingand for peace. He added that the youth must learn to play indigenous instruments on proper occasions.

Marlo Killip Pinatud cultural performer said that the activity is good as they learn the proper way of representing Cordillera culture. He also said that they were able to forge cooperation with the other cultural performers in the City of Baguio.

DKK Secretary Mia Butoeg said that the activity was scheduled on Satrurday and Sunday to accommodate all youth who are studying.

On July 23, DKK members and allied organizations will join the march-rally and a program at People’s Park during the 3rd State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Benigno Aquino III. A cultural concert will follow in the afternoon. # nordis.net