Highlighting the Return of Macli-ing Dulag in the Cordillera Region
In a significant turn of events, the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) recently staged the play "Macli-ing" at the Himnasio Amianan in the University of the Philippines Baguio, marking a new chapter in the history of this powerful production.
Directed by Karlo Altomonte, the play tells the story of Kalinga leader Macli-ing Dulag and the Chico Dam controversy, a struggle that resonates even today. Written by Malou Leviste Jacob, the play first graced the stage in 1988, serving as a cultural and historical tribute to Dulag's leadership and the collective struggle of the Kalinga and Bontoc peoples against the Marcos dictatorship’s Chico River Dam project.
"Macli-ing" dramatizes Dulag’s activism and his assassination in 1980, an event that became a pivotal moment in the broader indigenous resistance that ultimately halted the dam project. The play is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Dulag and others in the fight for indigenous rights and environmental protection.
The evolution of "Macli-ing" reflects the ongoing recognition of Dulag’s role in indigenous rights and environmental activism. Cordilleran activists started commemorating April 24 as Cordillera Day, celebrating Dulag’s legacy and the struggle against the dam project. This day is now celebrated annually to honour his memory.
In recent years, "Macli-ing" has experienced a revival, gaining renewed attention amid wider cultural and political movements supporting indigenous rights and environmental justice. This revival ties into ongoing national commemorations and educational efforts, helping new audiences understand the history and significance of the Chico Dam controversy and Dulag’s sacrifice.
Two groups, Salidummay and Sulong Likha, contributed to the production's music and artistic design under the guidance of Dap-ayan ti Kultura iti Kordilyera (DKK). Jacob's role as a creative consultant for the Communication Foundation for Asia highlights her dedication to education and collaboration in shaping Philippine theater.
The play's director, Karlo Altomonte, emphasized the grassroots nature of the production and the authenticity it brought due to the predominantly non-professional cast's lived experiences. Nanding Josef, who played Macli-ing, was among the PETA members who starred in the play.
The family of Macli-ing were among the audience for the play's performance. Robert Macli-ing, son of Macli-ing, expressed his gratitude for the community theater's invitation and praised the play's quality.
"Macli-ing" unveils the clashing worldviews surrounding the hydroelectric power project along the Chico River in Kalinga and Bontoc. The play recounts the life-and-death struggle of the villagers against the World Bank-funded Chico Dam project, eight years after the assassination of Macli-ing Dulag.
The Man-aalisig, a spiritual leader in the play, weaves a narrative of suffering, grief, resistance, and the relentless pursuit of justice, ancestral land rights, and self-determination.
Playwright Malou Jacob celebrated the success of the play "Macli-ing", expressing her gratitude for the continued support from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the community. However, it is important to note that, in 2019, a Chinese group began constructing and operating the Chico River Pump Irrigation System with the blessing of President Duterte, raising questions about the future of indigenous rights and environmental protection in the region.
Despite these challenges, "Macli-ing" continues to serve as a powerful reminder of the struggles faced by indigenous peoples and the importance of standing up for environmental justice. The play's revival is a testament to the enduring legacy of Macli-ing Dulag and the ongoing fight for indigenous rights and environmental protection in the Philippines.
- The revival of "Macli-ing" in recent years has been influenced by wider cultural and political movements supporting indigenous rights and environmental justice, making it a topic of generalnews and a significant element in the realm of politics.
- The play "Macli-ing" serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by indigenous peoples, particularly their fight for indigenous rights and environmental protection, calling attention to this ongoing issue in the broader societal context and general news discussions.
