15/02/2026
OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM THE OFFICE OF THE MUNICIPAL MAYOR HON. ALMAR P. MALANNAG
TO THE PEOPLE OF BALBALAN AND TO ALL CONCERNED:
The Municipality of Balbalan has long been recognized as the βKaanusan un Guimpongβ β the most peaceful, friendly, and patient tribe among the Kalinga people. This identity is not merely a title; it is the essence of who we are, woven into the fabric of our culture and passed down through generations.
However, let me be unequivocally clear: being the Kaanusan does not mean we are passive in the face of injustice. Our peacefulness should never be mistaken for weakness, nor our patience for silence when our integrity is questioned.
Recent events surrounding the Kalinga Bodong Festival have sparked discussions across social media, with some criticizing the people of Balbalan, claiming we have forgotten our identity. To these critics, I say: you have misunderstood us entirely. We have not forgotten who we are β we embody it every day. But we will not stand idle when falsely accused or when our people are unjustly maligned.
Regarding the contested activities and results of the festival, we welcome healthy competition and respect the outcomes. However, we firmly demand transparency and accountability in all processes. Our call for fairness is not an act of aggression; it is our right as participants and stakeholders to ensure that integrity governs our cultural celebrations.
As your Mayor, I bear the sacred responsibility of protecting the dignity and honor of every Ibalbalan. I will not allow baseless accusations to tarnish our reputation or diminish the values we hold dear. We are a people of peace, but we are also a people of principle.
To our critics: understand that the Ibalbalan will always choose dialogue over conflict, but we will never choose silence over truth. Our patience has limits when it comes to defending our name and our heritage.
To my fellow Ibalbalan: stand proud. We remain the Kaanusan un Guimpong β peaceful, friendly, and patient β but also strong, dignified, and unwavering in our commitment to justice and truth.
This statement closes all unfounded criticisms. We move forward with our heads held high.
HON. ALMAR P. MALANNAG
Municipal MayorBalbalan, Kalinga