The journey to Barangay Dalupirip in Itogon already sets the tone long before you arrive. From Twin River in Poblacion, the road winds its way through Barangay Tinongdan, offering a quiet escape from the rush of everyday life. Along the way, the Agno River glistens beside the road, framed by lush greenery, towering mountains, and stretches of rice fields. It’s the kind of view that gently reminds you to slow down—to take a deep breath, to pause, and simply take in the beauty around you.
Reaching Dalupirip proper is part of the experience itself. Four-wheel vehicles can only go so far, leaving visitors to continue on foot. But there’s no reason to complain. The walk across the iconic hanging bridge of Proper Dalupirip is a moment in itself—fresh air brushing past, the river flowing beneath, and the calm rhythm of nature all around. Beyond the bridge, a short walk through rice fields welcomes you deeper into the community, each step bringing you closer not just to the venue, but to the heart of Dalupirip.
On March 20, 2026, this quiet barangay came alive as residents and visitors gathered for the Paedeng Festival and Agro Day, guided by the theme, “Together we rise, we flourish.” The celebration, led by Barangay Captain Paul M. Camantiles with the support of Mayor Bernard S. Waclin and the Local Government Unit of Itogon, was more than just a festivity—it was a tribute to the community’s agricultural roots and shared aspirations.
The Paedeng Festival itself draws inspiration from the abundance of paedeng—small freshwater fish found in the Agno River that has long sustained the people of Dalupirip. More than a source of livelihood, paedeng represents tradition, resilience, and the enduring relationship between the community and its natural environment. The festival serves as a reminder of these roots, celebrating both the past and the future of local farming and fishing practices.
As the program opened with welcoming remarks from Kagawad Rudy Carino Wakit, the energy of the celebration quickly spread across the grounds. One of the highlights that followed was the ground demonstration—a vibrant cultural presentation by students from local schools. Through dance, music, and storytelling, the youth brought to life the story of Dalupirip: its river, its people, and its traditions. Each movement echoed a shared message—the importance of preserving their cultural identity, deeply tied to the abundance of paedeng along the Agno River.
Energy continued to build as participants cheered for each performance. Blessed His Place Academy (BHPA) emerged as the top performer in the ground demonstration, followed by Bantic National High School in second place and Laurencio Fianza National High School in third. Yet beyond the rankings, what stood out most was the pride and passion of the students, who carried their heritage onto the stage.
Throughout the day, messages from local and provincial leaders added depth to the celebration. Vice Governor Marie Rose Fongwan-Kepes spoke about empowering women and strengthening families, while Board Member Atty. Johannes Amuasen reflected on the origins of the Paedeng hatchery program—an initiative rooted in sustaining both livelihood and tradition. Representatives from SNAP-Benguet and PhilHealth-Benguet, along with Vice Mayor Xavier Godio, also shared insights, reinforcing the spirit of collaboration that drives community progress.
As the first part of the program drew to a close, Agriculture Committee Chairman Noel D. Bilibli left the crowd with a message that resonated deeply. He encouraged a return to traditional farming and fishing practices, pointing to the potential of nearby areas like Ampucao and Tuding as emerging coffee hubs. Backed by the continued support of the mayor and the LGU’s food security initiatives, his words served as both a reminder and a call to action: that the future of the community remains rooted in its land and its farmers.
Beyond the stage, the celebration extended into every corner of the community. Households proudly took part in a paedeng cooking contest, putting their creativity and culinary skills to the test as they transformed the humble river fish into a variety of flavorful dishes. Nearby, agribooths lined the area, showcasing the rich produce of local farmers—from fresh vegetables to homegrown products—offering a glimpse into the agricultural life that sustains the barangay.
Laughter and cheers also filled the air as locals joined traditional parlor games, including the ever-entertaining kayabang race, adding a lighthearted and communal spirit to the day.
By the end of the day, Dalupirip was more than just a destination—it became a story lived and shared. From the journey along the river, from the rhythm of cultural dances to the voices of community leaders, the Paedeng Festival offered something deeper than celebration. It was a moment of connection—to culture, to nature, and to one another.
[Content and photos by by PIO interns: Charmaine Capsula, Nicolle Joy Delmas, Rhyza Joie Tomas; BSU BA COMM]
