DAVAO CITY, Philippines – Bai Bibyaon Ligkayan Bigkay, a popular Lumad woman leader from Talaingod, Davao del Norte will be this year’s recipient of University of the Philippines’ Gawad Tandang Sora award.
Bai Bibyaon is the first woman Manobo chieftain and warrior n Pantaron range, which comprises the ancestral domain also shared by Salugpongan of Talaingod in Davao del Norte province. She is known for her defiant stance against the entry of logging operations in their community back in 1990s.
Jocelyn Caragay, dean of College of Social Work and Community Development (CSWCD), said the award, which is named after Melchora “Tandang Sora” Aquino, known as the Mother of Philippine Revolution, is given to “outstanding social development practitioners or social organizations that have excelled in social work, community development, or women and development.”
“This year’s awardee is Bai Bibyaon Ligkayan Bigkay, a Lumad woman leader, who has been at the vanguard of the Lumad struggle to defend their communities against militarization and plunder,” Caragay said.
“As we recognize Bai Bibyaon, we are cognizant that the contemporary heroic deeds of women leaders today will continue to inspire us in a life of service to the people,” Caragay added.
Caragay said the awarding ceremony is slated on Feb. 23 at 9 a.m to 11 a.m, which will be held at the Bulwagang Tandang Sora.
The 3rd Gawad Tandang Sora Award, will be part of the 50th anniversary celebration of the CSWCD of UP Diliman. (davaotoday.com)
