In celebration of the rich culture and resilience of indigenous communities, St. Scholastica’s Academy Pampanga marks this year’s Buwan ng Katutubo on October 15, 2024, with a special program dedicated to honoring and supporting the Aeta people. Through this event, SSA continues its commitment to promoting inclusivity, cultural awareness, and social responsibility among its students, faculty, and the entire school community.
Buwan ng Katutubo (Indigenous Peoples Month) is celebrated across the Philippines every October to recognize the contributions and unique heritage of the country’s indigenous groups. At SSA, this day offers students and the community a chance to understand, appreciate, and connect with the culture and history of the Aeta, one of the Philippines’ earliest ethnic groups.
A Day of Learning, Celebration, and Cultural Exchange
The day’s festivities are set to begin at 7:30 AM with discussions on the importance of education and the human rights of indigenous people. Students from the Senior High School (SHS) department will participate in talks that aim to foster a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by indigenous communities, particularly in the realms of education and social equity. These conversations encourage SSA students to reflect on their own role in uplifting and supporting indigenous rights.
The Buwan ng Katutubo program also provides an avenue for cultural exchange and economic empowerment. From 9:00 AM to 12:00 NN, the Aeta community will showcase and sell their handcrafted products at St. Cecilia’s Covered Court. This market not only highlights the creativity and craftsmanship of the Aeta people but also offers the SSA community a chance to directly support indigenous livelihoods. By purchasing items such as handwoven goods, jewelry, and other crafts, attendees contribute to sustaining the Aeta’s economic independence and preserving their traditional skills.
A Heartfelt Gathering and Celebration of Unity
At noon, the program shifts to a communal gathering in the HE Room, where SSA’s Kamalayang Pilipino (Filipino Awareness) group and members of the Aeta community will come together for a shared meal. This pagsasalo-salo is a meaningful moment of unity and mutual respect, symbolizing the importance of building connections and understanding between different cultural groups. Through this gathering, students have the unique opportunity to listen, share stories, and forge bonds with members of the Aeta community, fostering a sense of solidarity and empathy.
The afternoon program is filled with inspiring activities, including a heartfelt musical tribute by SSA’s own Rielle Jingco, who will perform a song in honor of the Aeta. There will also be games, or mga munting palaro, aimed at bringing joy and lightheartedness to the celebration. These games are more than just entertainment; they serve as an expression of camaraderie, bridging the gap between the SSA community and the Aeta guests in a fun and inclusive way.
In the spirit of recognizing the Aeta’s unique identity and contributions, representatives from the Aeta community will be given the stage to share their cultural presentations, showcasing traditional songs, dances, and other artistic expressions. This segment is a highlight of the day, offering a glimpse into the Aeta’s way of life and their enduring connection to the land, nature, and community.
A Reflective Closing
As the event comes to a close, SSA’s Sr. Alexis Lamarosa, OSB, will lead the community in a reflective message and prayer, reinforcing the values of love, service, and respect for all people. The day will conclude with a collective prayer, marking the end of a celebration that goes beyond mere festivities—it’s a call to action, urging everyone to continue supporting and advocating for indigenous rights and welfare.
Embracing a Legacy of Advocacy and Respect
The Buwan ng Katutubo celebration at St. Scholastica’s Academy Pampanga is not just a one-day event; it is part of the school’s larger mission to foster inclusivity and uphold the dignity of all people. By involving students in activities that celebrate indigenous culture and raise awareness of social issues, SSA molds future leaders who are both compassionate and conscious of their role in building a more equitable society.
The SSA community is encouraged to join the event and show their support by purchasing products from the Aeta artisans and participating in the day’s activities. Through initiatives like Buwan ng Katutubo, St. Scholastica’s Academy continues to strengthen its commitment to social justice and cultural understanding, ensuring that every Scholastican learns to serve others with love, humility, and respect.
Maraming salamat po, and let us continue to celebrate and honor the vibrant heritage of our indigenous brothers and sisters!
