Senatorial candidate Teddy Baguilat, Jr. performs traditional Ifugao dance at Mount 287 summit. Contributed photo.
CABANATUAN CITY – Former Ifugao governor and senatorial aspirant Teddy Baguilat led some 200 young mountaineers in climbing one of Nueva Ecija’s historical summits in an “Akyat Para Kay Leni” cum tree-planting activity in Barangay Puncan, Carranglan, Nueva Ecija on Tuesday.
Baguilat who is running under the ticket of presidential aspirant Vice President Leni Robredo underscored the need for good governance to members of Novo Ecijano Mountaineers, Nueva Ecija Youth Vote for Leni, Volunteers for Leni-San Jose City, Hope and Beyond, Kabataan ng Mount 387, and Cabiao for Leni and Kiko.
At the summit, Baguilat who is a known advocate of indigenous peoples’ rights explained the roots of Ifugao’s traditional eagle dance which is basically about the bird’s power to soar and catch prey.
“Makabuluhan at makasaysayan ang gawaing ito dahil sa mithiin na maisulong ang kaunlaran ng bansa,” said Mylene Caballero, a participant from this city.
Climbing the summit for a “TreeVolution” that also carries expression of support for Robredo is plainly meaningful, she said.
The youths wore pink shirts and flags.
Mount 387, which name represents the mountains total land area of 387.9 hectares, is said to be one of Japanese forces’ major defense lines during World War II.
It’s summit is called “Batong Amat,” or ghost rock from which one can enjoy the panoramic view of Nueva Ecija and portions of Pantabangan, said Roy Manuzon, chair of Kalinga sa Kalikasan ng Puncan o Kapuncan.
Kapuncan takes care of Mt. 387 under the Adopt a Mountain Program of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
