Collected thoughts from the 12th ICBE Conference in Belgium
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2th Igorot Cordillera BIMAAK-Europe (ICBE) Conference
ULB Campus du Solbosch, Bâtiment S, Salle Dupréel, Avenue Jeanne 44,
1050 Bruxelles, Belgium
29 May–1 June 2025
Collected Thoughts from the 12th ICBE Conference in Belgium
Written by Beverly Pooten, Marivonne Cuyob, George Londob, Lorena Domanog-Clerc, Laura Michelle “Mimi” Baeyens, Airen Ruettimann, Averil Pooten-Watan & Myra Colis
Compiled by Ric Cuyob
Coming Home Across the Seas: A thought from the 12th ICBE Conference in Belgium
By Lugay
Attending the 12th ICBE (International Conference on the Cordillera and Beyond) gathering in Belgium was more than just participating in a conference—it felt like coming home, even while being thousands of miles away from the Philippines. With over 200 delegates from 17 countries, including our kakailyan from the Philippines, it was a vibrant celebration of identity, heritage, and community.
The days were filled with energy—joyful reunions, thoughtful discussions, and the heartbeat of our culture expressed through dance and storytelling. One of the highlights for me was witnessing the cultural performances that brought our traditions to life. The rhythms of the gongs, the graceful movements, and the colorful attire not only reminded me of home but also eased the homesickness that sometimes quietly lingers as we live abroad. It was powerful to see how, even far from the Cordillera mountains, our culture thrives in the diaspora.
Equally moving was reconnecting with relatives and friends—some I hadn’t seen in years. These connections reminded me of the deep roots that bind us, no matter where life has taken us. There is a special strength in community, and ICBE served as a reminder that we are never alone in our journey as Cordillerans living overseas.
But what truly inspired me was the active participation of the second generation—our youth who were born or raised outside the Philippines. Watching them embrace, learn, and celebrate their heritage was both humbling and hopeful. Their presence signals a beautiful continuity: that the Cordillera spirit, values, and traditions can live on through them, wherever they may be.
To the younger generation of Cordillerans, I hope you know that our traditions are not just stories of the past—they are living expressions of who we are. Learn them. Ask questions. Dance to the sound of the gangsa. Wear your woven patterns with pride. Our ancestors have gifted us with a rich legacy—it’s now our turn to keep it alive and vibrant for the generations to come.
– A Proud Cordilleran Delegate
#icbe2025
#CulturalPride
#iyamanlugay
#cordillerandiaspora
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@highlight
Reflections from the 12th ICBE Conference – ULB, Belgium
By Lugay of Switzerland
Thanks to BIBAK Switzerland, I had the privilege of attending the 12th ICBE conference, hosted at the Université libre de Bruxelles in Belgium. The event brought together Cordillerans and friends from around the world, creating a space that was both intellectually enriching and deeply emotional.
Reconnecting with relatives and friends, joining the cultural dances, and immersing in meaningful discussions helped ease the ever-familiar feeling of homesickness. For a few days, we created a home away from home.
ICBE reminded me of what Dap-ayan is all about—gathering, sharing, and keeping our cultural identity alive wherever we may be.
With gratitude and pride,
[Lugay of Switzerland]
@highlight
Tiny Feet, Big Hopes: Little Lily and the Legacy of ICBE
By Beverly Pooten (Lugay)
Amid the vibrant colors, the rhythmic gongs, and the heartfelt laughter at the 12th ICBE Conference in Belgium, one small presence quietly stood out—Little Lily, no more than three years old, sitting curiously among the crowd as the youngest delegate of the night.
Born in Belgium to a Cordilleran-Filipino and Belgian family, Lily is the daughter of our beloved emcee during the gala evening. Watching her move through the hall—surrounded by music, woven fabrics, and the joyful energy of her Cordilleran roots—stirred something deep in me. There she was, a gentle and powerful reminder of why we gather, why we dance, and why we keep telling our stories again and again.
Lily, and other children like her, are the living future of the Cordillera diaspora. They may grow up far from the rice terraces and pine-covered mountains of home, but through our efforts—like this ICBE gathering—they are being lovingly wrapped in the fabric of who they are.
To Little Lily: one day you will understand the music that played for you that night. You will know that those rhythms are the voices of your ancestors. You will see that the woven patterns you wore are not just costumes, but stories. And you will grow into a woman who knows that being Cordilleran is a gift worth carrying forward.
Even the tiniest feet can follow in the steps of great traditions. And we—your elders, your titas and titos, your community—will be here to walk beside you, celebrating every step you take.
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Bridging Cultures and Celebrating Roots: My Experience at the 12th ICBE Conference in Brussels
By Beverly Pooten
From May 29 to June 1, 2025, I had the privilege of joining the 12th International Conference of Igorot/Cordillerans in Europe (ICBE) held at Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) in the heart of Brussels, Belgium. With over 200 delegates from 17 countries, the gathering was a vibrant celebration of shared heritage, cultural pride, and enduring connections.
Day 1: Welcoming Warmth in a New City
The conference officially opened with a welcoming session that set the tone for the entire event. It was a joyful reunion and a chance to meet new faces — fellow Cordillerans from across Europe and beyond. The organizers from ICBE Belgium did a wonderful job making everyone feel at home in a foreign city.
Day 2: Exploring Brussels and a Book Launch to Remember
Our second day took us on a city tour, where we explored the beautiful streets, landmarks, and history of Brussels. It was a great way to bond while appreciating the unique blend of old-world charm and modern European life.
One of the highlights of the day was the book launch — a meaningful event that celebrated our stories and voices. The publication not only documented the Igorot diaspora experience but also affirmed our commitment to preserving our identity wherever we may be.
Day 3: Learning and Dancing the Night Away
Workshops filled the third day with insightful discussions and practical learning sessions. Topics ranged from community organizing to cultural preservation and youth engagement — all of which reminded me of how much we can achieve when we come together.
The cultural night and gala evening were, without a doubt, the most colorful and spirited parts of the conference. Delegates came in their traditional attire, each group proudly representing their region through music, dance, and storytelling. The turnover ceremony of the next host country added a touching layer to the night, symbolizing the continuity of our shared mission.
We ended the evening with community dancing, where everyone — young and old — joined hands in laughter and rhythm. It was a moment of unity I will always treasure.
Day 4: Farewells and Forward Steps
The final day was bittersweet. After the closing session, it was time to say goodbye. Hugs, photos, and heartfelt goodbyes echoed through the halls as delegates began their journey back to 17 different countries. Though we parted ways, we carried with us a renewed sense of purpose and belonging.
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Thoughts of Gratefulness
by Marivonne Cuyob
I couldn’t be more grateful to have been part of the organizing team for the 12th ICBE Conference — a remarkable four-day journey of connection, culture, and community.
Seeing how far we’ve come, from humble beginnings to welcoming participants from 17 countries right here in the heart of Europe, is truly inspiring. I now better understand the hard work and dedication of our peers who built this organization from the ground up.
As a second-generation member of ICBE and Cordi-Bel ASBL, organizing this event was both a challenging and rewarding experience. With the support of family, friends, and fellow volunteers, we successfully brought this vision to life.
To my mom Alice Pumihic Cuyob and dad Ric Cuyob, first pioneers of this organisation. Thank you for reminding me that I have to be proud of who I am as a person and as an indigenous.
It was heartwarming to see both familiar and new faces — but most especially, to witness the second generation come together, share their stories, and reflect on their experiences as Igorots living abroad. That connection and shared identity were at the heart of this 12th ICBE, and we are reminded that our message still needs to reach many more.
Thank you to each and every one of you who contributed your time, energy, and words of encouragement.
See you in France, for ICBE 2027!
Iyaman tako am-in!
— Mae aka Marivonne
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Experience of a first timer in ICBE
By George Londob
Back in Zurich, reinvigorated after three days of celebrating and reflecting on Igorot culture and identity in Brussels. I truly appreciated the opportunity to connect with fellow Igorots in the diaspora (around 200 participants from 17 countries) and to honor our cultural heritage through the many thoughtfully prepared activities organized by our generous host, the Cordillera Community in Belgium (CordiBel), who, by the way, also hosted the very first ICBE gathering over two decades ago. It felt only right to recognize the pioneers during the opening night.
The presentations by three brilliant Filipino anthropologists—all scholars currently pursuing their PhDs or postdocs in Europe—offered rich insights and helped me reflect more deeply on my own indigeneity as someone now living away from the ili. But what moved me most were the third-generation Igorots born and raised abroad, who are wholeheartedly committed to learning about their roots. Their oral arguments on the question of “Who is an Igorot?” showed strong self-awareness, and their actions, including their tayaw and gangsa skills, spoke just as powerfully as their words. They’re not just talking about heritage..they’re living it, so to speak! Kudos to the parents, elders, and communities guiding them.
All in all, my first ICBE (Igorot Cordillera BIMAAK Europe) experience was not only inspiring, but also deeply cathartic. I’m already looking forward to the next one in Paris in 2027.
Iyaman kadakayo, kakabsat. Matago-tago tako am-in.
#icbe2012
George Londob
“It was a great experience”
By Lorena Domanog-Clerc
“What makes you an indigenous Igorot?” my Swiss colleague asked, confusion showed in his eyes—a familiar expression I see whenever I mention my being an Igorot. “I come from a region in the Philippines that was never colonized by Spain during their 300-year rule. This allowed us to preserve our rich culture and traditions, which we carry with us, no matter where we are in the world,” I responded.
This conversation was after I came back from a four-day conference where Igorots across 17 countries gathered. The Université Libre de Bruxelles was a witness to the meaningful discussions we’ve had about the anxieties we feel as Igorots living in the West while staying true to our ancestral roots. The discussions were inspired by the talks given by our young and brilliant Igorot anthropologists Macky Lacbawan , Abigail and Gelai Marilla
Many thanks to the Cordi-Bel (Cordillerans of Belgium) community who have been working tirelessly to provide food and making us all feel at home. Iyaman ken dakayo amin.
Sala salamat also to everyone who came and contributed to the stories, dancing and rituals making it a truly memorable experience for all of us. I’m still trying to digest the euphoria while struggling to stay sharp at work despite the lack of sleep.
“I want to go to the next ICBE in Paris in 2027. Everyone was a family at the conference, it was a great experience” said Egsaen. Wada iman indasan mi ay ag-i isdi.
Lorena Domanog-Clerc
My Two Cents Plea
By Laura Michelle “Mimi” Baeyens
Over 200 kakailians from 17 countries gathered in Brussels for the 12th Igorot* Cordillera BIMAAK Europe (ICBE) Conference last weekend, hosted by the Cordillera Community in Belgium (Cordi-Bel). It was great to see familiar & new faces, and to meet a few relatives based in Europe in person for the first time.
