In the quiet highlands of Tagbak, Talakag, the Talaandig Tribe has always carried stories passed down through generations: tales of bravery, heritage, and a deep connection to the land. These narratives, preserved through oral tradition, form the foundation of their cultural identity. Yet for many, the opportunity to read, write, and work with numbers had remained out of reach.
On August 7, 2025, the Rotary Club of Cagayan de Oro East Urban, in partnership with the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP) – College of Science and Technology Education, and guided by the wisdom of Datu Delboy, launched Pagkinanao—a culturally responsive literacy program whose name in Binukid means “to learn.”
A Program Rooted in Culture and Purpose
The Pagkinanao program will serve 48 direct beneficiaries, aged 9 to 63 years old, who will be taught to read and write over a six-month period. For the Talaandig community, this is far more than learning letters and numbers. It is:
- Learning to read, write, and count at their own pace and in their own language.
- Preserving cultural heritage by weaving oral traditions, values, and identity into every lesson.
- Promoting peace through knowledge, because part of keeping the peace is empowering communities to make informed choices and build better opportunities.
A Ceremony to Begin the Journey
The launch began with a tribal blessing ceremony led by Datu Delboy to dedicate the project and bless everyone present. This sacred moment affirmed the partnership between the Rotary Club of Cagayan de Oro East Urban, the USTP – College of Science and Technology Education, and the Talaandig community, honoring tradition before the work of teaching begins.
As part of the ceremony, everyone shared in a Tampolot—a communal meal where participants eat the chicken that has been ritually offered and cooked. In Talaandig tradition, the Tampolot is more than a meal; it is a symbol of unity, peace, and the sealing of goodwill among all present. Eating together from the same offering binds the community and guests in shared purpose and mutual respect.
Gifts, Commitment, and a Long Road Ahead
Nineteen Rotarians rose early, gathered together, and traveled in a convoy for more than an hour and 30 minutes from Cagayan de Oro to reach the mountain community. They brought school supplies, 40 bags for tribe members, 13 bags for teachers, two brand new 6-seater tables, a new bookshelf, two whiteboards, mats, toys for the children, and other learning materials.
Also donated were two tarpaulin posters displaying the alphabets—one with Binukid words alongside the letters, and the other showing the standard English alphabet. These will serve as constant learning aids for both children and adults in the program.
The day was also marked by the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement, formally starting the Pagkinanao project and sealing the commitment between the Rotary Club, USTP, and the Talaandig community.
And because learning is best celebrated together, the launch ended with a feast: congee with eggs, ice cream, treats for the kids, and shared lunch and snacks for everyone. The simple yet heartfelt gathering reflected the spirit of the project—building community while nurturing education.
Sustaining the Effort
For the next six months, volunteer teachers sponsored by RCEU will travel three times a month to Tulugan, Tagbak. They will carry not only books and pens but also hope, respect, and the commitment to help the Talaandig Tribe achieve literacy while preserving their identity.
Gratitude and Congratulations
Madakel ha salamat alan alan, or “thank you so much everyone,” to the generous sponsors, those who donated in cash or in kind, and the club members who gave their time, resources, and energy to make this possible.
We also extend our congratulations to President Stephanie Caragos, Chairman PP Joy Gan, Service Director Bing LA, Committee Members Su Macapayan and Visminda Diveza, and all the members of the Rotary Club of Cagayan de Oro East Urban for their dedication and teamwork in making this impactful initiative a reality.
Areas of Focus: Basic Education & Literacy | Peace and Conflict Resolution
When a community learns, it grows. And when it grows, it thrives. 🌱✨
#Pagkinanao #RCEUEastUrban #ServeToChangeLives #RotaryLiteracy #IndigenousEducation #PeaceThroughLiteracy #District3870 #UniteForGood #RotaryInternational #RCCdOEastUrban
