LA TRINIDAD, Benguet, June 10 (PIA) --This capital town is set to celebrate its 69th Foundation Day on June 14 with indigenous rituals and recognition of its outstanding citizens.

Information Officer George Babsa-ay Jr. said the foundation day program will kick off with a civic parade lead by its local officials along the national road from Kilometer 6 towards the municipal hall at Km. 5.

It will be followed by the traditional "shawat tan owik" or the ritual with the offering of pigs and wine and the dancing of the "tayao" to be led by Mayor Romeo Salda and Vice Mayor Joey Marrero.

Former National Commission on Indigenous Peoples Commissioner Zenaida Brigida Hamada-Pawid will serve as this year's keynote speaker. Outgoing Governor Crescencio Pacalso will deliver a message.

The municipal government will also award plaques and certificates of recognition and the prestigious "Golden Kayabang" Award to the outstanding members of the community who have made considerable impact and contributions and brought honor to the town.

Kayabang refers to the traditional carrying basket of the Benguet people which symbolizes their industry and strength.

Municipal Tourism Officer Valred Olsim said that it was in 2014 under Mayor Edna Tabanda that the Golden Kayabang Awards and Special Awards started. This was institutionalized by Municipal Ordinance 35 of 2015 or the "La Trinidad Foundation Day Ordinance of 2015" principally authored by Councilor Roderick Awingan.

To date, the town has awarded about 32 Golden Kayabang Awards and over 60 special and other awards.

Last year, the Golden Kayabang awardee was Mr. James Paw of barangay Pico who authored the book, "Cordillera Valley of La Trinidad" which clarified the origin of the name "La Trinidad."

The town's founding as a regular municipality was by virtue of Republic Act 531 on June 16, 1950.

This year's anniversary theme is "Recognizing our Roots, Building our Future." (JDP/RMC- PIA CAR)