Kavurunan: A gathering of different tribes of Cotabato during Kalivungan Festival

At least 500 Indigenous Peoples belonging to different tribes from all over Cotabato Province gathered at the Provincial Capitol Grounds in Amas, Kidapawan City on August 26-27 for Kavurunan, one of the highlights of the annual Kalivungan Festival.

An Aromen-Menuvu term for gathering, Kavurunan is aimed at promoting the diverse culture, traditions, and practices of the different tribes in Cotabato Province.

It is one of the events of Kalivungan Festival that we really look forward this year, and it never failed us. We were so amazed seeing different IP groups proudly wearing their traditional attires while showcasing the richness of their cultures and traditions through their performances of ethnic dances, chants and playing of traditional musical instruments.

Among the tribes that participated in Kavurunan this year include the Aromanen Menuvu, Libunganen, Obo Manobo, Tagabawa, Blaan and Tinananen.  

Each tribes also showcased their competitiveness in activities including the Search for Mutya ng Kavurunan, tribal games and cultural competition such as traditional dance, family ensemble, the uwahing or the solo voice contest, and musical instrument playing.

Our hat's off to the Provincial Government of Cotabato for this kind of event that is giving importance to our Indigenous Peoples. And may this Kavurunan empower the tribes and encourage them to be more proud of who they are.