Dinangwagay Festival Showcases Culture of Sharing and Sustainability in Boston, Davao Oriental

The Dinangwagay Festival of Boston, Davao Oriental is a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of the Manobo and Mandaya tribes in the municipality. It is an annual event that brings together the two indigenous groups in a celebration of their unique traditions and customs. The festival is held every harvest season, which falls in April, and is a testament to the culture of giving and sharing that is deeply embedded in the two tribes.

The festival's name, "Dinangwagay," which translates to “to give and to share equally." This name perfectly captures the essence of the festival, as it is a celebration of the culture of sharing and generosity that is so important to the two tribes.

During the festival, various activities are organized to showcase the unique customs and traditions of the Manobo and Mandaya tribes. These activities include cultural presentations, traditional dances, and musical performances which showcase the rich cultural heritage of the two tribes.

This year's celebration was particularly noteworthy as it focused on the importance of living in harmony with nature. The communities of Boston are known for their deep connection to the natural environment, and the festival highlighted this relationship by showcasing the various ways in which the tribes live sustainably with their surroundings.

The Dinangwagay Festival is not just a celebration of the culture of the Manobo and Mandaya tribes, but it is also an opportunity for the people of Boston, Davao Oriental, to come together and celebrate their shared history and heritage. It is a celebration of the community's resilience and strength in the face of adversity and a testament to their commitment to preserving their cultural traditions and passing them on to future generations.

The festival has been celebrated since 2017 and has become an important part of the municipality's cultural calendar. It is a time for the people of Boston, Davao Oriental, to come together, celebrate their cultural heritage, and reinforce their sense of community and belonging.

The BaiAni Foundation was glad to be part of this celebration. As an organization committed to the preservation of indigenous culture, the foundation has been involved in supporting the IP communities of Boston in their efforts to maintain their traditional practices and way of life. The organization also share the same vision with the community leaders that these valuable traditions are passed down to future generations and continue to thrive in the years to come.

The Dinangwagay Festival of the Municipality of Boston is a shining example of the rich cultural diversity that exists in the Philippines. By celebrating the traditions and customs of the Manobo and Mandaya tribes, the festival not only promotes cultural preservation but also highlights the interconnectedness of culture and nature.