06/30/2026
๐ฆ๐๐๐๐๐ & ๐จ๐๐ช ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ฑ ๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ ๐๐ฆ๐ฆ๐๐ข๐ก ๐ง๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ก๐
June 15, 2025 โ Day 4: Deepening Cultural Connections in Bukidnon
Day 4 of our cultural immersion continued with another warm Bukidnon morning as the team enjoyed a sumptuous breakfast graciously prepared by the Municipality of Maramag before setting out for another meaningful day of learning and fellowship.
Accompanied by the Maramag Tourism Office, the team first visited the Maramag Public Market, widely recognized by locals as one of the cleanest and most organized public markets in Bukidnon. The market reflects the municipality's commitment to cleanliness, proper sanitation, and support for local farmers and small entrepreneurs. Walking through its well-maintained aisles gave the team a glimpse of everyday life in Maramag, where fresh fruits, vegetables, locally grown produce, handcrafted goods, and other agricultural products proudly showcase Bukidnon's rich farming heritage.
The team then joined Maramag Mayor Jose Joel P. Doromal and the Municipal Tourism Office for a truly unforgettable cultural experience with the Manobo Tribe at the Mindanao Tribal School, Inc. (MTSI) in Maramag.
The Manobo people are one of the largest and oldest indigenous groups in Mindanao and are among the seven major indigenous tribes of Bukidnon. Deeply rooted in their traditions, they are known for their rich oral history, colorful handwoven clothing, intricate beadwork, traditional music, and dances that celebrate their connection to nature, family, and community. Their enduring commitment to preserving their customs continues to inspire future generations while enriching the cultural identity of Bukidnon.
The welcome was filled with warmth, music, and vibrant cultural performances as tribal members proudly shared their traditions through songs and dances. The SAFACC and UIW team eagerly joined the festivities, dancing alongside the community and creating joyful memories that transcended language and cultural differences.
One of the day's highlights was sharing a traditional "budol fight" lunch with the tribal community, Mayor Doromal, and the tourism staff. A budol fight is a beloved Filipino communal dining tradition where an assortment of local dishes is beautifully arranged over banana leaves and enjoyed together without plates or utensils. More than a meal, it symbolizes equality, unity, generosity, and the Filipino spirit of sharing, perfectly reflecting the purpose of this cultural immersion.
Following lunch, several members of the medical team visited the homes of Manobo families, where they engaged in heartfelt conversations and learned about their daily lives, traditions, hopes, and challenges. These personal interactions provided invaluable insight into the community they would soon be serving through the medical mission, reinforcing that meaningful healthcare begins with understanding the people behind every patient.
Day 4 reminded us that cultural immersion is more than observing traditions. It is about building genuine relationships, listening with open hearts, and appreciating the resilience, wisdom, and beauty of indigenous communities.
Our heartfelt gratitude goes to Mayor Jose Joel P. Doromal, the Municipality of Maramag, the Maramag Tourism Office, the leadership of Mindanao Tribal School, Inc., and especially the Manobo community for welcoming our delegation with such generosity, warmth, and hospitality. Thank you for allowing us to experience your culture, your stories, and your way of life. These are memories that will remain with our team for years to come.
Together, we continue building bridges of friendship, cultural understanding, and compassionate serviceโone community at a time.
