Background and Awards

Musician and Dancer, Kalinga

Lubuagan, Kalinga

Aug 4, 1942 / 75 yrs old

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He is known for mastering traditional Kalinga music and dance, which he has been performing and teaching for many years. Saclag conferred the National Living Treasures Award in 2000. By 2016, he had established a village within his town, named Awichon, which aims to promote Kalinga culture to tourists.

 

Saclag is married to a woman named Rebecca with whom he has nine children.

 

The article describes the efforts of Alonzo Saclag, who declared Manlilikha ng Bayan for 2000, in preserving and promoting the culture of the Kalinga people, who are often portrayed in history and media as a hostile and violent tribe. Saclag, a Kalinga master of dance and the performing arts, uses his expertise to create awareness and appreciation of Kalinga culture. He advocates for the documentation of their traditions and laws and campaigns to preserve their artifacts and archaeological sites.

 

Saclag also formed the Kalinga Budong Dance Troupe to pass on his knowledge of Kalinga performing arts to the younger generation. He believes that it is essential for the youth to understand and value their culture to prevent it from eroding under foreign influences. Despite the challenges, Saclag's efforts have resulted in the establishment of the Lubuagan branch of the National Museum and the integration of Kalinga music and dance in local schools and radio stations.