This photo of Isneg children learning to dance (courtesy of seasite) is a timely reminder that our traditions will not die when passed on to the next generation. It also encouraged me to continue posting Cordillera folktales so our kids will learn about the stories of our people. From our first installment on the origin of the peace pact (which you can read here), let’s move on to two Isneg folktales. Since the Cordilleras is renowned for its rice terraces, it is fitting that these tales are about rice.
News From the Boondocks
Ifugao tops the 2006 National Assessment Test for the elementary level according to the Philippine Information Agency. The same report states that Baguio ranks first in the secondary level.
Meanwhile, the Mt. Province General Comprehensive High School, introduces Igorot culture to the world via an international schools Cyberfair. Check out their informative website, which seeks to: “Show the unification and collaboration between old world tradition and modern technology.” Kind of like this blog eh? 
And in Benguet, more farmers are shifting to cut-flower production because of continuing vegetable importation. Paging the economist President, didn’t you say that globalization will lead us to the Promise Land?
The List, Part 7: Chandu and Alyce Claver
When someone texted me that Chandu and Alyce Claver were ambushed, I took time out from my busy day to pray for them. I’m not a prayerful person and I don’t personally know the victims but if you come from the Cordilleras ( Kalinga and Mt. Province in particular) you would know that the Claver name is a good family name and it would not be hard to feel for the family when any of them is in danger.
FtB Lister Ruben Guinolbay
As we earlier stated in The List, Part 5, Ruben Guinolbay (Philippine Military Academy, Class 94) is much praised for his leadership in the campaign against the Abu Sayyaf. He is also now detained for his alleged participation in the alleged February 2006 coup. Lots of “alleged” here eh? Don’t blame me, I’m just protecting my arse.
