Tayabas City Indigenous Peoples Games spark hope for annual tradition

By Rowena Cruz Aeta athletes compete in the Indigenous People's Games in Tayabas City, showcasing their skills and cultural heritage. (P...

By Rowena Cruz

Aeta athletes compete in the Indigenous People's Games in Tayabas City, showcasing their skills and cultural heritage. (Photo from Isports Tayabas)

TAYABAS CITY, Quezon – Full of hope for the future of traditional sports, seventy Aeta athletes from Barangay Tungko recently competed in the Indigenous Peoples Games held in Rizal Park. Organizers envision this event becoming an annual tradition, establishing a lasting platform to celebrate indigenous athleticism and cultural heritage for the next generation of Aetas and other tribes.

The games, which featured archery, a scissors game, wooden paddle games, and stone ball games, were organized by the City Mayor's Office and the City Sports and Wellness Section. The competition aimed to preserve and promote these cultural practices while fostering unity and active participation within the indigenous community.



Four teams competed for the top spot, with team number 2 emerging victorious, taking home a trophy and a ₱10,000 cash prize. Team number 1 secured second place, receiving a trophy and ₱7,000. The third and fourth-placed teams also received trophies and cash prizes worth ₱5,000 and ₱3,000, respectively.

Representatives from the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Region 4A were present to observe and guide the proceedings, ensuring the authenticity and cultural sensitivity of the games. "We are thrilled to witness the revival and celebration of these traditional games," said NCIP Representative. "These games are not just about physical prowess, but also about keeping the Aeta culture alive and vibrant."

"Seeing the enthusiasm and joy of the participants is truly inspiring," added NCIP Representative. "Events like this strengthen the sense of community and identity among indigenous peoples."

"The City Sports Development Office is very grateful to our indigenous brothers and sisters for their annual solidarity and participation in the Indigenous People's Games," said a representative from the office. "More than winning the games is hearing the laughter and seeing the smile on your face as you play the racing games. Thank you all so much!"

Organizers also extended their gratitude to all individuals and offices involved in making the event possible, particularly Mayor Lovely Reynoso-Pontioso for her support in valuing the indigenous communities of Tayabas City. The Sangguniang Panlungsod, under the leadership of Vice Mayor Rosauro Dalida, also received acknowledgement for their approval of the program.

This Indigenous People's Games is one of the many programs implemented by the Sport Development Section under the Office of Mayor Lovely Reynoso-Pontioso, reflecting the city's commitment to recognizing and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of its indigenous communities. By providing a platform for traditional sports and practices, the city hopes to encourage the transmission of these traditions to younger generations and promote intercultural understanding.