“Taltallak” staged in Balbalan to revive indigenous practice amid tech trends

Balbalan, Kalinga – With the emergence of technology, indigenous customs are inconspicuously fading away.

As the digital era continues to threaten to obscure culture, the municipal government of Balbalan staged various cultural events during the 15th Manchatchatong Festival celebration in a bid to revitalize and preserve the town’s unique identities.

Among the activities held was the “taltallak” motorcade and showroom.

The local term “taltallak” translates to “truck,” according to Municipal Tourism Regine Faye D. Munda Cruz.

“It is a wooden car which was used in earlier times to transport firewood from where they collected going to the houses. It made transportation easier because they did not need to carry it most of the time,” she explained.

Aside from its main purpose, it also served as a toy car for children before. The children, Munda Cruz added, would take turns in pushing and riding it.

Over the years, it has been observed that the “taltallaks” are no longer played with as children are now drawn to gadgets. Thus, the municipal tourism officer suggested during the Ad Hoc committee meeting for the festivities that “taltallak” tilt be included as part of the festival “to rekindle the interest of children in playing “taltallak” and at the same time bring back the cherished memories of the older ones.”

The suggestion was granted and adopted in November. The body agreed that the event would surely be one of the exciting highlights of the festival.

“During the December Kapehan, it was suggested by Dr. Ester Roselle Calma that the competition should not involve racing because the safety of the participants is the top priority, as we all know. The competition was then entrusted to Hon. John Vianney S. Duggoy, Municipal SK Federation President, as the chairperson of the committee,” relayed Munda Cruz.

Mechanics and Criteria

Each of the 14 barangays in town is limited to one entry. The “taltallak” must be originally designed and made intricately with indigenous materials by the participating villages. The entries must be capable of movement and must withstand the pressure to carry at least two individuals.

The motorcade was held from Ngaya-an’s Residence to Saint Theresita's School grounds so participants were required to ensure that their vehicles are equipped with a reliable brake system, ensuring safety throughout the journey.

The two occupants were adorned in complete Kalinga attire, with males wearing the traditional “baag” and females donning the elegant “tapis.”

Unlike a race, the motorcade emphasizes the endurance and resilience of the taltallak vehicles, showcasing their capabilities without the pressure of competition.

Upon arrival at Balbalan Central School Ground, the vehicles will be parked for the showroom, where enthusiasts and judges alike will have the opportunity to appreciate the craftsmanship and design of each entry, ultimately determining the standout performers of the event.

The entries were judged based on innovation/uniqueness (30%), creativity/design (30%), durability (30%), and mobility (10%).

Winners

Following the indigenous showcase that attracted attention from other places, Barangay Maling emerged victorious, pocketing a P5,000 cash prize. Barangay Dao-angan followed with a P4,000 reward, while Balbalan Proper settled as the third placer, securing a P3,000 prize.

All other participating villages were given P1,500 in recognition of their efforts.

After the competition, the winners got their “taltallak” back, while the other barangays donated their entries to those who wanted them.

It can be recalled that the “taltallak” contest was first staged during the Centennial Celebration of Balbalan in 2009 and was featured on TV Patrol of ABS CBN by Marc Logan.

Asked if the event will be held annually, Munda Cruz said it will depend on the decision of the LGU Balbalan Kapehan body and in case it will be conducted next year, there will “surely a new twist will be introduced. As of now, the LGU Department Heads are thinking of introducing other indigenous games for the festival so we will have something to look forward to.”

For his part, Mayor Almar Malannag lauded all those who were behind the successful event. He further thanked his constituents for actively participating in their move to encourage the younger generation to enjoin them in their culture preservation.