The Panalawahig is a revered annual ritual and pilgrimage that takes place from April 30 to May 1 at Sabangan, a sacred site in the heart of Bukidnon. This significant gathering brings together Tribal Elders from the seven tribes of Bukidnon to reaffirm their shared identity, spiritual bond, and collective responsibility.
The event celebrates their deep connection to the land, honoring Sabangan ha Tagoloan as the birthplace of indigenous law, governance, and the spiritual framework that has guided their communities for generations.
Sabangan, located in Barangay Can-ayan, Malaybalay City, is not only the headwaters of the Tagoloan River but also considered the spiritual heartland for the province’s indigenous peoples. It is here that the tribes converge each year, marking their unity with the land, their ancestors, and each other.
The City Tourism Office, invited by the Bukidnon Tagoloanon Tribe Ancestral Domain, headed by Atty. Burt Estrada, Chairman of the Council of Elders, had the honor of participating in this year’s pilgrimage on May 1, 2025. Their participation allowed them to witness the richness of the traditions and rituals, while also gaining a deeper understanding of the historical significance of the site.
Report: Jiany Bon B. Bagiohan, City Tourism Office – NADA Coordinator
Photos by: City Government of Malaybalay
