It’s not every day that you see foreign students wear local native garments. But on the celebration of ‘Buwan Ng Wika’ (National Language Month), they flaunt the tribal wear of Davao’s diverse ethnic culture.
To help enhance the students, particularly the foreigners, appreciation and understanding of the Filipino culture, language, history, dances, songs, stories, games, and food, Stockbridge American International School (SAIS) in Davao City recently celebrated ‘Buwan ng Wika in a Kadayawan sa Davao-themed activity.
The Philippines observes the whole month of August as “Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa” in honor of the common language that unites the whole nation.
With the theme “Filipino and Native Languages: A tool for Discovery and Creation,” students dressed up in and participated in various activities highlighting the culture of the 11 tribes of Davao City namely Ata, Klata, Tagabawa, Ovu Manuvu, Matigsalog, Tausug, Sama, Iranun, Maguindanaoan, Maranao and the Kagan.
As part of the culminating activity, the school set up its version of Tribal Village called “Banwa” (town) showcasing the booths of the following tribes: Taosug, Ovu Manobo, Maranao, and Maguindanao.
The school also staged a Philippine National Attire Parade highlighting students in their Filipino attire.
South African student Lucretia Naicker had fun wearing her Filipiniana.
“I think it is very different,” she said.
Akiko Shigyo, a parent from Japan is thankful that her kids were given a good opportunity to know how beautiful and amazing the Filipino culture is.
“We think of the future as a series of a new start rather than an end, which will lead to many successes. We have, since day one, set our minds on a goal, and moved, tirelessly, towards it. Our goal was: Filipino and Native Language: Tool for Discovery and Creation,” Ryan Sultan, a Filipino teacher, said.
If the magnificent Kadayawan sa Davao Festival showcases the thanksgiving over a bountiful harvest and the unity of various tribes, SAIS emphasizes how the characteristics of these tribes connect to its Core Values (LIONS) Leadership, Integrity, Open-Mindedness, Nobility, and Stewardship.
