Isulan Festivals: Celebrations of a Multi-Cultural Community

Yvonne Tañeza: A Decade of Compassion and Global Influence In honor of International Women’s Month, we spotlight Yvonne Tañeza, Mrs. Grand Universe 2023, for her unwavering dedication to humanitarian deeds and advocacy. A pride of Sultan Kudarat, her journey and actions inspire change and embody the true spirit of compassion. From Sultan Kudarat to the Global Stage Yvonne Tañeza’s transformative journey from the verdant fields of Sultan Kudarat to the illustrious stage of Mrs. Grand Universe 2023 is a narrative that resonates with the power of resilience and ambition. Facing the adversities of poverty head-on, Yvonne’s unwavering resolve and tireless efforts paved the way for her remarkable achievements on an international platform.  Her victory is not merely a testament to her beauty and grace but stands as an emblem of hope and inspiration for countless others. It underscores the belief that with perseverance and dedication, barriers can be broken and dreams can indeed become reality.  Yvonne’s story, detailed further at SultanKudarat.com, serves as a compelling reminder that no dream is too big and no starting point too humble for those who are determined to achieve greatness.  A Decade of Dedication: The 10th Anniversary Outreach Program For ten remarkable years, Yvonne Tañeza has dedicated herself to the noble cause of uplifting those around her, culminating in a significant outreach program at B Venus Elementary School on February 14, 2024. This event wasn’t just about distributing aid; it was a celebration of a decade-long journey of compassion, resilience, and impactful change. Yvonne’s personal story of overcoming adversity to achieve success served as a powerful catalyst, inspiring both students and their families to believe in the possibility of a brighter future.  The outreach was a vivid reflection of her belief in the transformative power of giving back, demonstrating that true charity involves not just material contributions, but the sharing of hope and encouragement. The heartfelt moments and the visible impact of this initiative were captured and shared, allowing a broader audience to witness the tangible difference one person’s dedication can make in the lives of many. Witness the impact of her outreach on Facebook. Previous slide Next slide An Influential Leader in Humanitarian Advocacy Yvonne Tañeza’s dedication to humanitarian advocacy culminated in receiving the distinguished title of “Asia’s Influential Advocate of Compassion for the Least Fortunate Children” from the Award Council of Asia’s Influential Leader Awards 2024. This accolade underscores her exceptional efforts and significant impact in championing the rights and welfare of underprivileged children. It celebrates her unwavering commitment to utilizing her platform and resources to foster a brighter, more hopeful future for needy children. More than an award, it recognizes compassion and resilience’s influential role in driving societal change. Yvonne’s receipt of this honor highlights her contributions and inspires others to contribute to the well-being of society’s most vulnerable members. The celebration and acknowledgment of this prestigious recognition were shared with a broader audience, reinforcing that dedicated advocacy can transform lives. See her acceptance and the celebration of this prestigious recognition on Facebook. Yvonne’s Journey: A Testament to Compassionate Leadership Yvonne Tañeza’s journey to becoming Mrs. Grand Universe 2023 is not just her story, but also a tribute to her parents’ enduring strength and wisdom. It’s a testament to the truth that a child’s achievements are interwoven with the legacy of their upbringing. Every accolade that Yvonne has garnered is a reflection of her mother’s resilience and her father’s steadfast support, proof that the triumphs of the child are echoes of a mother’s courage and a father’s guidance. As we celebrate her and the women of the world this International Women’s Month, let’s acknowledge the profound role parents play in shaping leaders like Yvonne. Her success is their success, a shared tapestry of struggle, love, and ultimate victory, inspiring every one of us to turn our own dreams into legacies of change and hope. Frequently Asked Questions Who is Yvonne Tañeza? Yvonne Tañeza is an inspirational figure from Sultan Kudarat who was crowned Mrs. Grand Universe 2023. She is known for her humanitarian work and advocacy against hunger, especially in the context of education for underprivileged children. What is Yvonne Tañeza’s connection to Sultan Kudarat? Yvonne Tañeza was born and raised in Sultan Kudarat, specifically in Sitio Nakan, Brgy. Kapaya, Bagumbayan. Her upbringing in this area, alongside the challenges she encountered and conquered, has deeply impacted her drive for humanitarian efforts and advocacy work. How can I support Yvonne Tañeza’s cause? You can support Yvonne Tañeza’s cause by contributing to her outreach programs, participating in her educational campaigns, or collaborating with the organizations she works with to spread awareness and aid in the fight against hunger. Keep an eye on her social media and official website for updates and opportunities to get involved. Table of Contents

Deep in the heart of the Municipality of Esperanza dwells a small community of Aetas. They hailed from the Islands of Iloilo and Luzon, travelling from place to place for their survival. Their nomadic practices had been their way of life. Photo Source: BiyahengJuanSided.Wordpress.Com  & www.EtherScan.io BEAUTY THAT IS SKIN DEEP The physical appearances of the Aetas are very recognizable compared to that of the Ilonggos in the community in Barangay Numo, Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat. Their dark skin and kinky hair makes them stand out in the community. According to the elders, those women who have darker skin color are considered the most attractive ones in their community. Although some of the members are married to other people from different cultural background, their offsprings still bear the mark of their beauty. Although there are times that they feel indifferent from the community due to their physical appearances, people in the barangay are always aware not to discriminate them because of this. Some members are confident enough despite of differences. Others have participated in community affairs such as meetings, gatherings and other social function. Photo Source: www.rappler.com & www.gogetfunding.com NOMADIC LIFE The Aetas are considered one of the very first people of the Philippines. They have traveled from place to place using the “land bridges.” Although these “land bridges” had disappeared, it did not hinder them from travelling from place to place. In one of their travels, they ended up in the Municipality of Esperanza. Through the generosity of the Local Government Unit of Esperanza, they were granted with a piece of land where they can call their home. Even so, their nomadic tradition seems to live on. They would stay in the community for a week or two. When their supplies are low, they would hire vehicles to travel to different places where they can find money to buy their needs. From the Municipality of Esperanza, they have travelled as far as Cagayan de Oro City for their exploits. In the area where they travel, they would ask owners of vacant lots for them to settle for up to three weeks. They women will roam around to sell their wares, their handweaven purses and other indigenous medicines. These crafted items are made from the things they can find in the forest of Esperanza. While the women are selling, the men look for temporary jobs, usually in construction companies. When they have enough savings, they would go back to the Municipality of Esperanza. Their huts, which was desserted for awhile, had become lively again, a result of their productive travel. Photo Source: www.smokeofbliss.blogspot.com & www.pcp.ph AETAS THE SUPERNATURAL There are few accounts on the religious practices of the Aetas. However, they have adapted the religion of other cultures in the community. Most of them are already baptized in mainstream religions such as Christianity. Few of their indigenous practices still survive until now. They are not known for agriculture but they are excellent hunter gatherer. The forest is their main source of materials they need. One very particular item that they make is the “panagang.” It is a small bottle with various dried herbs and wood, soaked in oil. It is believed that once you have in your possession, the “panagang” can shield you from any harm. It is also believed that the oil can cure illnesses, specially those that are caused by supernatural entities or magical workings. They would sell these “panagangs” during their travels. Aside from the “panagang,” they also sell various charms and herbs they gather from the forest. Photo Source: www.biyahengjuansided.wordpress.com & www.globalsistersreport.org STRUGGLES FOR SURVIVAL The struggles of the Aetas are very real. Their old ways had become a blessing and root cause of their problem. Although there are attempts of inteventions provided by the government, such efforts have less impact in alleviating the social status of the Aeta Community. The Barangay unit have placed a Day Care Center near the Aeta community. However, this have little effects. It is because the education of the young ones are interrupted by their travels. This is because when they travel, all of them will join. No one will be left in the community. Since there are no one to care for the younger ones, they would bring them. Family planning is a real problem with the Aeta community. One hut, which is usually just a studio type hut, houses around three families. During day time, the “papag” is where they eat. During night time, it is transformed into a bedroom. Since there are a lot of members in the household, only women and children sleep in the hut. While the men look for other places such as trees or “duyan” to sleep. Health and sanitation is also one problem that must be addressed. You can see children playing around without clothes. Sometimes, wounds and scratches are only treated with oils or water or saliva. This situation posses a threat in the suvival of this community. The Aetas of Barangay Numo are beautiful people inside and out. They are kind and gentle. They are very accommodating to guests and visitors. During mealtime, they would offer the best food to the guest first before partaking something for their own. They are  an amazing tribe with a lot of things for us to discover. Frequently Asked Questions Where can you find Aetas in Sultan Kudarat? In fact, there are Aeta villages in Sultan Kudarat, though they are not as common there as they are in Luzon. Where can you find Aetas in Sultan Kudarat? Some places in Sultan Kudarat where you can find aetas are in the mountains and forests. What is the main way that Aetas in Sultan Kudarat make money? Like their relatives on Luzon, the Aetas of Sultan Kudarat make most of their money from farming, hunting, and gathering. How is the culture of the Aeta in Sultan Kudarat different from that of the Aeta in Luzon? The Aeta culture in Sultan Kudarat might be a little different because