1st Caraga IP Games celebrates unity, heritage, cultural pride
By Nora L. Molde
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IP GAMES: Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante of Agusan del Norte shares a joyful moment with Indigenous Peoples (IP) Games participants during the first Caraga IP Games in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte on October 10 to 12, 2025.
Governor Amante, tracing her roots to the Manobo tribe, expresses pride in the province’s cultural heritage. (Photo courtesy of the province of Agusan del Norte)
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The vibrant colors of traditional attire, the joyful shouts of friendly competition, and the spirit of camaraderie filled the Buenavista Central Elementary School grounds for the first-ever Indigenous Peoples (IP) Games in the Caraga region from October 10 to 12.
Organized by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), in partnership with the Provincial Government of Agusan del Norte, the Municipality of Buenavista, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), and the Department of Education (DepEd), the three-day event brought together over 350 participants from the Manobo, Mamanwa, and Higaonon tribes, the major indigenous groups of the province, including Butuan City.
Despite the magnitude-7.4 earthquake that struck parts of Mindanao on Oct. 10, the games pushed through, reflecting the resilience, unity, and strong sense of cooperation among the indigenous peoples of Agusan del Norte.
PSC Executive Assistant Joselito Cinco lauded the province’s successful hosting of the event, adding that he was moved by the hospitality and enthusiasm of the participants,
“This is the best IP Games we’ve ever conducted in the Philippines,” Cinco said. “Mahihirapan kami pantayan ito next year. The unity, energy, and respect for culture here in Agusan del Norte are truly inspiring.”
Ten traditional games—Pintik, Takyang, Bangkaw, Bika-bika, Bag-ud, Indigenous Race, Tug of War, Fire Making, Lubok-Humay, and Palosebo—were featured, each one showcasing teamwork, creativity, and joyful competition rooted in ancestral traditions.
In her message, Agusan del Norte Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante expressed pride in seeing the province’s IP communities come together for such a meaningful celebration.
“Dili nato wad-on ang inyong mga tribu. Kay ug wala mo, wala pod ang Agusan del Norte, (Your tribe must never cease because without you, there would be no Agusan del Norte),” she said, affirming her administration’s commitment to cultural preservation and inclusivity.
She also noted the growing number of educated and professional IPs contributing to society.
The governor, who traces her lineage to the Manobo tribe, said the event symbolized the province’s continuing commitment to inclusivity and cultural preservation. “This is not only about competition, it’s about cooperation, mutual respect, and keeping alive the roots that define us as Agusanons.”
Buenavista Mayor Joselito T. Roble, who initiated the hosting of the games, said the experience was both an honor and an opportunity to highlight local unity.
“We accepted this with open arms because we wanted our IP communities to feel seen and celebrated,” Roble said. “This is not just about games, it’s about giving them a platform to shine, to share their culture, and to inspire the next generation.”
NCIP Provincial Officer Cierona Cutar-Molaan also expressed gratitude to the PSC and the provincial government for recognizing and honoring the rich cultural heritage of the Indigenous Peoples.
“We are deeply thankful to the PSC and to the leadership of Governor Angel Amante for giving our IPs this rare opportunity to celebrate who they are,” Molaan said.
He added, “This event strengthens our shared mission of preserving culture, promoting unity, and passing our traditions on to the younger generation.”
After two days of the competition, Las Nieves emerged as the overall champion, followed by Cabadbaran City (2nd place), Nasipit (3rd), Carmen (4th), and Buenavista (5th). Cash prizes ranging from P15,000 to P60,000 and gifts from the PSC and DepEd were awarded to the winners.
Adding
more color and emotion to the celebration was the Cultural Night held on Oct.
11, which featured traditional performances such as Pamada, Panubaga, Tud-om,
Limbay, Pangaslag, wardance, and a unity dance where participants, leaders, and
guests joined hands in a moving display of harmony.
Schools
Division Superintendent Jeanie L. Mativo praised the participants, saying,
“Your culture is a gift, one that must be celebrated, protected, and passed on
to the next generation. What we saw tonight was not only talent but heart.”
As the event came to a close, the organizers, officials, and the participants noted that the laughter, pride, and sense of togetherness lingered among all who joined. The 2025 IP Games, they said, proved to be more than a competition; it was a celebration of unity, identity, and hope, proving that through culture and cooperation, the people of Agusan del Norte stand strong together.
The IPs of Agusan del Norte said they may come from different tribes but through the IP Games, they move as one, and unite in pride and culture, and with a purpose. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte, with a report from MLGU Buenavista)