‘Kaamulan’ comes from the Binukid word ‘amul,’ which means ‘to gather.’ Text and photos by Marky Ramone Go, Contributor

The Araguaney tree blooming with yellow leaves behind me provides a vibrant prelude to what I am about to witness. As the marching drums of the 12 participating contingents in the street dance competitions start to pound foot-stomping beats, I can feel the vibe of Kaamulan Festival becoming more electrifying.

Celebrating the indigenous culture of Bukidnon, the festival highlights the dynamic enactments from the province’s seven ethnic groups ─ Manobo, Higaonon, Bukidnon, Talaandig, Umayamnon, Matigsalug and the Tigwahanon – into a yearly occurrence showcasing their traditions, rituals and way of life.

First celebrated in 1974, the Kaamulan has now become one of Mindanao’s biggest festivals. Kaamulan comes from the Binukid word “amul,” which means “to gather,” therefore ringing true to Kaamulan Festival’s constant gathering of the seven ethnic groups of Bukidnon.

This unique set-up makes it the only ethnic festival in the Philippines, according to organizers and heritage advocates.

As the morning sun sheens the stretch of Sayre Highway, where I join a multitude of people eagerly awaiting the parade, I catch a glimpse of the colorful contingents from a distance. Wanting to probe closely, I walk towards them and come face to face with a sundry set of performing delegations – all ready to rock the place adorned in their colorful traditional costumes.

It dawned on me that there is more to the romping stomping drum beats and captivating street dances. The participants are also exhibiting their fine artistry perfected from past generations through the intricate creations of their clothes.

Each aesthetic seen covering their bodies, from headwear to handcrafted clothing designed with flamboyant cross-stitching patterns, to the distinctive accessories, exhibits the amount of artisanship they apply to showcase their tribal culture. It is truly a visual feast.

With permission from the indigenous elders of the seven ethnic groups of Bukidnon, sacred dances depicting the various way of life, rituals and cultural practices are performed accompanied by traditional music. The performers soon fill much of Sayre highway with a sparkling spectacle.

The street parade lasts from sunrise to mid-morning until the 12 contingents reach the stadium grounds of Malaybalay where they compete for the other category, the best in ground presentation.

The performers from Malaybalay are adjudged as the champion for the Street Dancing category, while the contingent from the municipality of Pangantucan bag the Ground Presentation trophy.

The Kaamulan is more than just the street dance parade, it is a multi-day folk celebration aiming to promote the understanding of diverse cultures. The night before the grand street parade, we watch a cultural presentation depicting an epic folk tale of the Talaandig and Manobo people.

of Agyu and Tagyakuwa recounts the journey to immortality of Bukidnon’s cultural hero Agyu, and his marriage to Tagyakuwa.

This fascinating Mindanaoan legend is narrated through the graceful dance choreography of the Bukidnon State University Dance Troupe and a poignant musical performance by the members of the Bukidnon State University Chorale.

After witnessing how some of the festivals all over the Philippines have surrendered to the euphoric pull of mass revelry, I find the Kaamulan Festival loyal to its roots, showcasing the rich culture of its original indigenous people.

Feeling fortunate to witness the Kaamulan Festival, I not only return home with poignant memories of enchanting dance performances, I am richer in knowledge about the rich culture, storied history and way of life of the magnificent seven ethnic groups of Bukidnon.