San Miguel town in Surigao Sur strengthens 4Ps Manobo families
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
SAN MIGUEL, Surigao del Sur (PIA) — A meaningful step toward strengthening families and celebrating Indigenous Peoples’ (IP) culture was achieved through ‘Bulig 2025: A Celebration of Love and Culture.’
The activity was spearheaded by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) of San Miguel, in partnership with the local government unit (LGU) of San Miguel in Surigao del Sur.
Held on October 22 in Barangay Calatngan, an IP community in the municipality from the Manobo tribe, the event gathered 80 4Ps couples for a day of learning, cultural appreciation, and unity with the theme, ‘Strengthening the Bond of Pantawid Pamilya and IP Month Celebration.’
The activity aimed to promote family resilience, cultural appreciation, and social inclusion, key priorities under the government’s human development and social transformation agenda in line with Bagong Pilipinas.
Municipal Mayor Michael T. Corilla shared an uplifting message, emphasizing unity, understanding, and mutual respect as cornerstones of a harmonious marriage and a progressive community. He reaffirmed his administration’s strong support for the 4Ps families and expressed pride in also celebrating the Indigenous Peoples’ Month, recognizing the contributions of the Manobo tribe to local identity and development.
Beyond strengthening family relationships, ‘Bulig 2025’ served as a vibrant platform to showcase Manobo culture and traditions. The event featured traditional food, tribal delicacies, and cultural performances that reflected the community’s pride, resilience, and shared heritage
One of the program highlights was an insightful discussion on “Strengthening Marital Relationships and Caring for the Family,” delivered by Provincial Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) Hawudon Jimmy I. Guinsod.
He underscored the importance of nurturing family ties and preserving cultural heritage as foundations of resilient and compassionate communities. “The strength of every community lies in the love and harmony within its families,” Guinsod said in a local vernacular, inspiring participants to safeguard both their homes and traditions.”
Shiela J. Burato, social welfare officer III of 4Ps San Miguel, expressed gratitude to all partners and participants for their commitment and cooperation. ‘Bulig 2025’ is not only a celebration of love and culture, it is a reaffirmation of our shared mission to build empowered, united, and culturally rooted families.”
Burato added that the initiative supports the government’s long-term vision for inclusive and sustainable human development, as outlined in AmBisyon Natin 2040, the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023–2028, and President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Bagong Pilipinas framework, underscoring that genuine progress begins with strong families and cohesive communities.
The event was made possible through the collaboration of the DSWD, LGU of San Miguel, tribal leaders, and the barangay LGU of Calatngan. Some members of the Sangguniang Bayan also attended, extending their support and messages of inspiration.
Ultimately, the event embodied the true meaning of ‘bulig,’ a local term for helping one another, reflecting the enduring spirit of unity and cooperation that enables communities to build stronger families, preserve their cultural heritage, and contribute to a more compassionate and united nation. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)
