Kalinga plans to hold biannual arm wrestling

Tabuk City, Kalinga – As part of Kalinga’s celebration of its rich cultural heritage during its 29th founding anniversary, the province launched its inaugural arm wrestling or "sanggol" tournament on February 17, 2024, at Kalinga Sports Complex.

The event, sponsored and organized by Sharif Wandag of S&R Sports Apparel Shops and SBW Sports Apparel, was described as a significant milestone in promoting camaraderie and sportsmanship among the community in Kalinga and those from other places.

In an exclusive interview, Wandag expressed his deep-rooted belief in preserving and promoting traditional Cordilleran games like "sanggol," which have been integral to the cultural fabric of the region.

"Sanggol," he said, has always been part of the Cordilleran culture and included in the region’s "Laro ng Lahi," often played during the celebration of Indigenous Peoples' Month. It has also been featured in the DepEd's Provincial and Regional Meets for 12 years now.

Kalinga’s first tournament provided a platform for local talents to showcase their skills that may pave their way to national arm wrestling events. Additionally, the event served as a catalyst for promoting tourism and fostering a sense of community among the participants.

With the support of Governor James Edduba, the indigenous sport was a success, with the participation of 34 powerfully built men and five strong women.

Arm wrestling groups from across the country expressed their interest in participating in future editions of the event.

Wandag praised the tournament's success, thanking the participants for their contributions. He also extended appreciation to the provincial government for their support in fostering sports and cultural connections in the area.

Looking ahead, Governor Edduba plans to make the "sanggol" a biannual event, aligning it with cultural celebrations such as IP Month and Kalinga Day.

Wandag emphasized the importance of providing opportunities for aspiring athletes to hone their skills through arm wrestling clinics, ensuring their sports development.