1. What is the Bendian or Bindiyan Festival?
Answer (2)
The Bendian (or Bindiyan) Festival is a traditional cultural celebration of the Ibaloi people in Benguet, especially in La Trinidad. It began as a ritual dance performed to celebrate important events such as victories in battle, healing ceremonies, thanksgiving for a good harvest, and honoring community leaders.The centerpiece of the festival is the Bendian dance, where dancers form circles of varying sizes, moving gracefully to represent unity, peace, and harmony within the community. Today, the festival is also a way to preserve and promote the rich heritage and traditions of the Cordillera region, blending both cultural rituals and modern celebrations like parades and cultural shows.
The Bendian (Bindiyan) Festival is a traditional dance celebration of the Ibaloi people in Benguet. It symbolizes unity, thanksgiving, and community spirit, performed in circles with gongs and dances, and is now showcased in town fiestas like the La Trinidad Strawberry Festival.
