Benguet kicked off its 125th founding anniversary with a vibrant grand parade in La Trinidad, where music, cultural performances, and long-held indigenous traditions took center stage.

Cultural dance groups led the procession, followed by children showcasing their drum and lyre routines.

“The essence ng Adivay ngayon is honoring our ancestors and of course passing our magandang kultura sa ating susunod na generation,” Governor Melchor Diclas said.

One of the highlights of the celebration was the Depap ni Otik, a traditional event where representatives from the province’s 13 municipalities each try to catch a pig.

The activity was followed by the Owik tan Tayaw, a customary ritual in which the pigs are butchered before the community performs the indigenous Tayaw dance.

Throughout the Benguet Sports Complex, the sound of gangsa, solibao, and other traditional instruments echoed as performers filled the grounds with energy.

Residents also worked together to prepare food for the communal feast known as watwat. Around 40 pigs were cooked for the day’s festivities, underscoring the strong spirit of unity among the community.

More than 500 police officers were deployed to maintain security during the opening day, especially along main roads affected by ongoing construction.

“Visible ang mga pulis natin lalong-lalo na sa La Trinidad. Lalong-lalo na rin along the main road kasi meron tayong ongoing na construction sa kalsada. Kailangan talaga natin diyan ‘yung magmamanage,” P/Col. Lambert Suerte, Benguet police provincial director, said.

The month-long Adivay Festival will run until November 30, featuring more cultural shows, rituals, and community gatherings celebrating the province’s heritage.