The fifty-year old Mantog never had formal education when he was
young out of fear.
“Giingnan ko sa akong amahan nga ka-onon ko sa agta kung
moeskwela ko (my father told me that a mythical monster will eat me if I go to
school),” he revealed.
Education was not on his list of priorities since he
became engrossed with his duties as a young chieftain starting the age of 15.
He was a well-respected leader well-versed in their cultural tradition and
practices.
“Apan maulaw ko nga dili ko kama-o mobasa (I was ashamed
that I could not read,” he opened up.
Things changed when he was given the opportunity to learn basic
literacy skills in 1981, which was enriched by his participation in the ALS-IP
program since last year.
He said the literacy program significantly helped him
improve his people skills as a tribal leader.
He also became a trainer of the municipal tribal dance troupe,
which even won in a national competition some years back. His artists, who are
also ALS-IP completers, now get regular invitations to perform in various
occasions across the region.
“Nahimo kaming madasigon sa pag-ambit ug pagselebrar sa among
Lumadnong kultura (We are more inspired to share and celebrate our culture),”
he said. (noel baguio/davnor pio)
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