The Hiyas sa Kadayawan is a vibrant celebration dedicated to preserving and honoring the cultural heritage of Davao City's 11 ethnolinguistic tribes. This event not only highlights the beauty of their traditions but also showcases the rich and diverse cultural tapestry of these tribes. Meet the 11 Hiyas sa Kadayawan candidates, each set to bring pride and honor to their communities.
Ata Melody M. Omo joined Hiyas to advocate for the preservation and transmission of indigenous knowledge among her community, with a focus on empowering the younger generation. She emphasizes the importance of safeguarding the Ata language, encouraging the youth to speak and cherish it.
Through her platform, she aims to use her voice to promote the continued preservation of indigenous knowledge systems and practices, ensuring they are passed down to future generations. Melody is proud to represent her heritage and showcase her identity as a natural woman. Bagobo-Klata Jane Rose G.
Miones is committed to preserving her tribe's identity amidst the pressures of acculturation. She joined Hiyas to push her advocacy forward, particularly against the inclusion of transgender women in tribal roles, emphasizing the importance of maintaining cultural authenticity. Jane believes that married women, who have faced numerous challenges, should be recognized and accepted.
She stresses the importance of language as a core part of tribal identity and advocates for an interactive tribal museum to educate the youth .