0 Comments
In a move to promote cultural heritage and strengthen community ties, SN Aboitiz Power-Benguet (SNAP-Benguet) turned over a set of traditional indigenous instruments to Barangay Tinongdan in Itogon, Benguet.
The initiative forms part of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs, linked to its Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project, which combines technological advancements with efforts to preserve local traditions.
(Also read: Solar Power Reaches Remote Barangay in Quirino)
Cultural preservation through indigenous music
On July 21, the barangay, led by Barangay Captain Edwin Atumpag, welcomed traditional instruments integral to local heritage, such as solibao drums and gangsa gongs.
The initiative includes the forthcoming delivery of shengdi blankets, which are traditional cloth used for festivities and rituals. The move reflects SNAP-Benguet’s commitment to safeguarding indigenous identity, as outlined in the barangay’s development plan, prioritizing heritage preservation.
Atumpag welcomed the arrival of the instruments as a meaningful boost to preparations for the Indigenous Peoples Month celebration, noting their value in strengthening local identity.
Echoing this sentiment, Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative Hailey Alilis stressed the importance of cultural transmission, especially among the youth, underscoring how tools like these help bridge generations.
With traditional crafts and instruments becoming harder to find, the initiative reflects SNAP-Benguet’s broader commitment to sustaining indigenous heritage in its partner communities.
At the turnover ceremony, SNAP Group Vice President and Chief Operations Officer, Atty. Mike Hosillos reaffirmed the company’s support for Tinongdan’s development priorities. He also shared plans for a medical and dental outreach this August, aimed at extending vital health services to underserved residents, particularly those in far-flung sitios with limited access to regular care.
(Also read: 206 More Sitios in Baguio, Benguet Set for Electrification by 2027)
Commitment to host communities
In July, SNAP-Benguet and Barangay Tinongdan formalized a partnership through a memorandum of agreement to fund special CSR projects. The collaboration supports initiatives in environmental protection, economic development, healthcare, and education.
“This MOA reflects our commitment to create lasting value in the areas where we operate,” stated SNAP President Joseph Yu. “It ensures that our sustainability goals are translated into concrete, community-driven programs.”
The agreement was signed as part of SNAP-Benguet’s 17th anniversary celebration at the Binga Hydroelectric Power Plant.
Known for operating the Ambuklao and Binga hydro facilities, the company is also stepping into next-generation energy solutions, including battery storage systems, as it supports the country’s shift toward a more sustainable energy future.
Sources:
https://punto.com.ph/snap-benguet-donates-traditional-ip-instruments-to-tinongdan/