Turnover Ritual Uggayam
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3rd Igorot Cordillera BIMAAK Europe (ICBE) Consultation
5-8 May 2005
by Patrick Bounggick
Uggayam is a song/chant performed by a leader during public programs. Thus it’s my dignity to deliver my message with my native attire and my very own dialect (for the purpose of documentation, it’s translated in English).
After the long journey from our native land, Igorots arrived in the different countries of Europe with a common desire. It's by nature that Igorots possess a strong solidarity, no matter where they are; thereby, in Belgium through the mobilization of Susan, Peter and Ric of Cordi-Bel, hosted the first Consultation. The positive response of the participants in Belgium initiated Igorot Austria to host the 2ndConsultation. These successful gatherings are a testimony of our desire to achieve our objectives and to strengthen our unity as migrants and immigrants.
To the BIBAK-Switzerland, thisKALASAGor shield signifies that the BIMAAK Europe came into being through the cooperation and unity of the Igorots in Europe, representing their own tribes.
GAYANGor spear is handed to you symbolizing the long path of achieving our objectives. I challenge my co-Igorots to work hand and hand with great commitment, thus we make it our responsibility to nurture the seed that we planted.
Lastly, we will now play theGANGSA, as an expression of our gathering here in Switzerland for this is an opportunity for us to meet our friends, kailians and relatives. KABUNYAN, the God of our ancestors, thank you for all your blessings and may you continue giving us more strength especially Yvonne and her husband, for inspiring and guiding us for the cause of being Igorots. Guide and protect us, as we move on to preserve our "Cultural Heritage."
Matagotago tako am-in!