In line with the National Indigenous Peoples’ Month 2025, Coral Bay Nickel Corporation (CBNC) once again celebrated the vibrant heritage and traditions of the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) of Bataraza through a weeklong cultural festival held from October 25 to 31 at Pineapple Park and Museum in Barangay Bulalacao.
Carrying the theme “Ating Pandayin ang Kinabukasan, Gabay ang Katutubong Karunungan at Karapatan,” the annual celebration gathered Indigenous Peoples Education (IPED)–implementing schools across the municipality to highlight their artistry, cultural pride, and traditional skills. The initiative aimed to honor Bataraza’s indigenous communities and reinforce appreciation for their rich cultural legacy.
“CBNC without fail conducts this activity to revive the beautiful culture of Palawan. If we stop doing this kind of activity, we might lose the sight of a Palaw’an doing the taruk or they might forget how to play their traditional instruments like the kudyapi, beberek and aruding, etc. Thru these activities, we can help reignite their love for their culture and traditions,” said CBNC Representative Faye Peralta.
The festivities opened with an IP Bazaar featuring indigenous handicrafts and handmade goods, showcasing the talent and craftsmanship of local artisans. Among the exhibitors was Estar Santik of Bulalacao, whose traditional designs exemplified his commitment to preserving cultural artistry.
On October 27, creativity took center stage with the On-the-Spot Painting Contest themed “Celebrating the Beautiful Culture and Traditions of Indigenous People.” Twelve teachers and six students from various IPED schools participated in the six-hour competition. Before painting began, Dr. Lorna Reyes, OIC District Supervisor of Bataraza I, encouraged participants to stay rooted in their cultural identity and help keep traditions alive.
In the teachers’ category, Mr. Dominador Lamigo Jr. was hailed champion for his piece symbolizing the richness and diversity of local culture. “Different colors symbolize our joyful and prosperous culture. With the help of CBNC, our traditions—especially those of the Indigenous Palaw’an—are being appreciated and strengthened,” he shared.
For the students’ category, Ms. Mea Rose Balestin claimed first place with a painting depicting the traditional Taruk dance. “I wanted to show the Taruk dance of the Pala’wan people. This dance holds stories that should be passed on to the next generation of IP youth like me. It reflects the history and beauty of our culture that we must preserve and share with others,” she said.
On October 28, participants arrived in traditional attire to compete in various indigenous games and cultural performances, marking the highlight of the event.
One of the standout activities was “Mais-Mais”, a native version of volleyball played by men wearing bahag, where Saray Elementary School emerged as champion. In the Kasing spinning-top competition, Mr. Jenito Concia of Taysay Elementary School won the no-metal category, while Mr. Galbes Marcos of Bulalacao ruled both the with-metal category and the Supok (blowgun) contest.
The Culinary Best Competition showcased traditional cooking techniques using ingredients sourced from forests and rivers. Bato-Bato Elementary School impressed the judges with their dish Ginatan na Bak, a frog delicacy simmered in coconut milk. In the Bayo contest, which tested women’s rice-pounding skills, Gimba Elementary School secured the top spot.
The celebration concluded with a grand Tarek Dance Competition, where schools performed the graceful and rhythmic traditional dance. Saray Elementary School earned the highest recognition for their exceptional presentation.
During the awarding ceremony, all participating IPED schools were acknowledged for their dedication and contributions. Reflecting the spirit of unity and cultural pride, organizers emphasized that “no one lost because everyone is a winner,” celebrating not only the competitions but also the shared heritage and enduring resilience of Bataraza’s indigenous communities.
